Tristan Da Silva concluded an illustrious four-year tenure with the Colorado Buffaloes by achieving a significant milestone: he was chosen as the 18th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic. His selection marked a standout year for Colorado’s basketball program. Fellow Buffaloes Cody Williams and KJ Simpson were also drafted. Williams 10th by the Utah Jazz and Simpson 42nd by the Charlotte Hornets. Da Silva and Williams became the highest draft picks from Colorado since Derrick White’s selection in 2017.
Photo Cred: SI
Under the guidance of Head Coach Tad Boyle, the program has flourished. It has produced a total of ten NBA draft picks during his thirteen-year leadership. During his senior season, Da Silva played a pivotal role in the team’s historic campaign. He contributed to a record-breaking 26-win season and run to the NCAA tournament’s second round. He showcased his skills averaging 34 minutes per game with notable statistics. Da Sliva averaged 16 points per game on 49.3% shooting overall. From beyond the arc he shot 40% and an impressive 83.5% from the free-throw line.
Da Silva’s dedication to improvement was evident in his eight-point increase in free-throw accuracy from the previous season. It highlights his consistent performance and growth. Reflecting on his draft night, Da Silva expressed enthusiasm about joining the Orlando Magic. He emphasized the opportunity to contribute alongside a roster brimming with promising young talents who have already achieved significant milestones.
“Yeah, it’s a rare opportunity to join a team with such promising young talent that has already achieved so much. I’m excited to complement them and contribute to our success,” said Da Silva in a post-draft interview.
Photo Cred: Buff Zone
Throughout the NCAA tournament, Da Silva distinguished himself in pivotal matchups against Boise State, Florida, and Marquette He demonstrated his scoring prowess and efficiency. Da Silva was drafted under the guidance of former Colorado player Jamahl Mosley. Mosley is now head coach of the Orlando Magic. Da Silva garnered praise from team president Jeff Weltman for his exceptional basketball IQ, versatile skills, and potential to contribute immediately.
The only questions revolve around his upside on the ball, and how much his limited explosiveness and physicality will affect him as a creator, finisher and rebounder. Joining a Magic squad invigorated by burgeoning stars like Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs, Da Silva expressed eagerness to play a role in their promising trajectory in the Eastern Conference. His journey from collegiate standout to NBA draftee represents not only personal success but also a testament to Colorado’s thriving basketball program under Coach Boyle’s leadership.
