Buffs Face Challenges Ahead of Australia Trip

Buffs face tough summer ahead without Dak and Mani, while Grill and Johnson shine as NBA prospects.

The Colorado Buffaloes men`s basketball team is gearing up for summer practices and an exciting exhibition trip to Australia, but they will do so without key player Bangot Dak. The talented forward is sidelined due to injury, leaving Coach Tad Boyle to express regret over not redshirting Dak last year, a decision that could have preserved an additional year of eligibility. The Buffs will also miss Denver transfer guard Jon Mani, who is currently training with the Israel national team, and incoming freshman Isaiah Johnson, who is still awaiting clearance to practice.

As they prepare for their four-game exhibition trip, which includes a matchup against the Australian Boomers on July 31, the Buffs will host Grace College in an exhibition game on October 19 before kicking off the 2025-26 season against Montana State on November 3.

In NBA draft news, Missouri guard Caleb Grill is emerging as a potential undrafted prospect with impressive shooting skills, boasting a 40% three-point shooting percentage. His standout performance at the G-League Elite Camp, highlighted by a 38-inch vertical leap, has drawn comparisons to sharpshooters like Landry Shamet and Bogdan Bogdanovic. Meanwhile, Diamond Johnson from Norfolk State shone at the 2025 Women`s College All-Star Game, scoring 21 points and leading her team to victory, solidifying her status as a strong candidate for the WNBA draft. The Brooklyn Nets are also showing keen interest in Egor Demin ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, signaling ongoing preparations for the upcoming selections. For more on college basketball, visit college basketball and for NBA draft insights, check NBA draft.

#ColoradoBuffs,#BangotDak,#CalebGrill,#DiamondJohnson,#NBADraft