Justin Neely, a seasoned forward who topped the Southern Conference with 7.1 rebounds per game last season, is set to wear a Colorado jersey as the Buffs seek to rewrite their interior narrative for the 2026‑27 campaign.
The transfer from UNC Greensboro arrives after a collegiate résumé punctuated by honors: he was crowned America East Rookie of the Year, collected the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2024‑25, and posted a career‑high .542 field‑goal percentage while averaging 17.9 points.
Colorado’s rebounding performance last year ranked among the lowest in Tad Boyle’s tenure, a statistic that has become a focal point for a program eager to climb the Pac‑12 ladder. Neely’s arrival is being framed as the catalyst for a turnaround.
With ten newcomers shaping a largely untested roster, the veteran’s voice carries added weight. Neely, now in his sixth year of college eligibility, is expected to mentor younger teammates while shouldering the bulk of the team’s interior work.
A Rebounding Renaissance
Coach Boyle has spoken of the need for a ‘steady hand’ and a ‘culture of accountability,’ messages that align with Neely’s reputation for professionalism and relentless effort on the glass.
The blend of Neely’s experience and the program’s fresh infusion of talent could prove decisive as the Buffaloes aim to transform a historically weak rebounding unit into a competitive force within the conference.