Head coach JR Payne’s Colorado women’s basketball team was back in action on Sunday after an offseason of extreme roster overhaul. The Buffs kicked off their 2024-25 campaign with a 91-46 exhibition victory over the Colorado School of Mines at the CU Events Center.
Oklahoma State transfer Lior Garzon led the Buffs with 18 points, displaying prowess at all three levels of scoring.
CU is still ironing out a roster made up of 10 new players, doing so with a balanced offensive approach. Eleven of the roster’s 12 active players on Sunday scored at least one point.
“We’re very intentional about learning each other,” Payne said following the win. “The chemistry will continue to come… It’s going to be pretty basketball.”
Veteran transfer portal additions stood out for the black and gold, as Nyamer Diew (3-for-4 from distance) and Jade Masogayo each logged 13 points. Former Minnesota forward Ayianna Johnson patrolled the paint with 12 points and five offensive rebounds.
Returning guard Frida Formann did not play due to a foot injury. Texas Tech transfer center JoJo Nworie, who’s still recovering from an ACL injury, also didn’t see the court.
The Buffs’ regular season opener will come on Nov. 4 at Wyoming. Tipoff is set for 5:30 p.m. MT.
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