The Colorado Buffaloes men’s basketball program is expected to have another strong season, even with the departures of Evan Battey and Jabari Walker to pro basketball.
Keeshawn Barthelemy also transferred to Oregon. Nonetheless, the Buffs have a lot of promise, especially with the young talent on the roster.
One guy expected to take a major step forward is KJ Simpson, who blossomed in a lot of opportunities last season for the Buffs.
Simpson is on the USA East Coast basketball roster, and they are headed for Barcelona soon. Simpson was named the freshman of the week twice in the Pac-12 and showcased plenty of skills.
The roster for USA East Coast Basketball is set for this month's trip to Barcelona, per release. pic.twitter.com/uhCEEtSS8h
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) August 1, 2022
That is a loaded roster full of sophomores and juniors. College hoops insider Jon Rothstein also pegged Simpson as a breakout candidate for the 2022-23 season.
Three guys on this roster who should definitely be breakout guys in 22-23:
Benny Williams, Syracuse
KJ Simpson, Colorado
Brandon Newman, Purdue https://t.co/tuxL7Uwgah— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) August 1, 2022
The starting point guard role is suddenly open for Simpson to take, and the departure of Barthelemy and some others should allow him to get significant minutes.
Simpson averaged 7.4 points per game with 2.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists across 32 contests for the Buffs, and head coach Tad Boyle used him more and more throughout the season.
Simpson earning attention from the national media surely is a step in the right direction and a telling sign.
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