Danny Manning, 57, is set to join the Buffaloes starting June 1, following a two-season stint as the associate Head Coach with the Louisville Cardinals. Manning, who was teammates with Colorado HC Tad Boyle at Kansas in 1984-85, famously led the Jayhawks to the 1988 national championship. His arrival coincides with Colorado’s return to the Big-12 conference next season.
Bringing a wealth of head coaching experience, Manning previously coached the Tulsa Golden Hurricane from 2012-14 and the Wake Forest Demon Deacons from 2014-20. Additionally, he served as an assistant coach with the Kansas Jayhawks from 2006-12, winning the national title in 2008. Manning’s tenure with Wake Forest saw their sole NCAA tournament appearance in 2017, reaching the First Four.
Photo Cred: The Players Tribune
“I’m thrilled to have him join the staff,” Boyle commented. “He brings not only coaching prowess but also exceptional character, which will undoubtedly benefit Colorado basketball.”
The Buffaloes are coming off a record-breaking 26-win season but faced significant departures in the offseason, losing their top six scorers, including notable names like junior point guard KJ Simpson and senior small forward Tristan Da Silva, to the NBA Draft, and transfers to other programs such as Syracuse, Louisville, and Georgia Tech.
Eager to make an impact, Manning expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m very excited to join coach Boyle’s staff. This group has achieved considerable success over the years, and I’m eager to contribute in any way I can.”
Manning will play a crucial role in the team’s reconstruction as they prepare for the challenges of competing in one of college basketball’s toughest conferences. Returning players include senior guard Julian Hammond III, junior guard Javon Ruffin, and sophomore forwards Bangot Dak and Assane Diop, alongside new additions from the transfer portal and incoming recruits, such as graduate transfer forward Trevor Baskin and graduate center Elijah Malone. With one scholarship spot remaining, the Buffaloes are poised for an intriguing season ahead.
