Chauncey Billups, often revered as “Mr. Big Shot,” is arguably the most illustrious player to emerge from Colorado. Born in Denver, Billups was a hometown hero who played for the Buffs from 1995 to 1997. During his tenure at Colorado, he averaged an impressive 18.5 points per game and led the team to the NCAA Tournament in 1997, a milestone not achieved since 1969. His leadership, combined with his clutch performances on the court, earned him All-American honors and a place in the hearts of Buffs fans.
Billups’ journey did not end with college basketball. After his college career, he was drafted third overall in the 1997 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics. Over a 17-year NBA career, he became a five-time NBA All-Star, won an NBA Championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004, and was named the Finals MVP. Billups’ legacy at Colorado remains unmatched; his number 4 jersey was retired by the university in 2004, a testament to his lasting impact on the program.
Cliff Meely: A Dominant Force
Cliff Meely was a powerhouse for the Buffaloes from 1968 to 1971, leaving a legacy as one of the most dominant players in Colorado history. Known for his scoring ability and rebounding prowess, Meely was a force to be reckoned with on the court. In his senior year, he averaged an incredible 28 points and 12 rebounds per game, leading the Buffs to a Big Eight Conference title, a significant achievement for the program.
Meely’s outstanding performances did not go unnoticed; he earned All-American honors, and his jersey number 20 was retired by the university, ensuring his place in Colorado’s storied basketball history. After college, Meely went on to play in the NBA for the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers. His impact on the program is still felt today, and he is remembered as one of the greatest Buffs of all time, with his legacy inspiring future generations of players.
Alec Burks: A Scoring Sensation
Alec Burks, who played for the Buffs from 2009 to 2011, was renowned for his scoring ability and versatility on the court. In his sophomore year, he averaged 20.5 points per game, a feat that helped lead the team to the NIT semifinals. Burks’ ability to score from anywhere on the court made him a standout player in the Big 12 Conference, and his dynamic playstyle captivated fans and opponents alike.
After declaring for the NBA Draft, Burks was selected 12th overall by the Utah Jazz in 2011. His college career may have been brief, but his impact on the program was significant. Burks helped elevate Colorado basketball to new heights, bringing national attention to the program and setting a new standard for future Buffs players. His legacy is one of excellence and inspiration, paving the way for other talented scorers to follow in his footsteps.
Andre Roberson: Defensive Dynamo
Andre Roberson was a key player for the Buffs from 2010 to 2013, known for his defensive skills and rebounding ability. Roberson was a crucial part of Colorado’s success during his tenure, providing the team with a defensive anchor and a relentless work ethic. In his sophomore year, he averaged a double-double and was named the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2013, a testament to his impact on the court.
Roberson’s defensive prowess caught the attention of NBA scouts, and he was drafted 26th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2013 before being traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder. His contributions to the Buffs’ defense helped solidify Colorado as a competitive force in college basketball, with his tenacity and dedication serving as a model for future Buffs players. Roberson’s legacy is one of defensive excellence and a commitment to team success.
Donnie Boyce: A Consistent Scorer
Donnie Boyce was a consistent scoring threat for the Buffs from 1991 to 1995, leaving a lasting mark on the program. As Colorado’s all-time leading scorer with 1,995 career points, Boyce’s scoring ability and leadership on the court were instrumental in the Buffs’ success during his time with the team. His relentless drive and determination made him a fan favorite and a key figure in Colorado basketball history.
Boyce was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 1995 but faced challenges in his professional career due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, his contributions to the Colorado basketball program remain significant, as he helped lay the foundation for future success. Boyce is remembered as one of the top players in Buffs history, with his record-setting performances serving as a benchmark for aspiring scorers.
Richard Roby: A Versatile Talent
Richard Roby played for the Buffs from 2004 to 2008 and was known for his versatility and scoring ability. He finished his college career as the second all-time leading scorer in Colorado history, just behind Donnie Boyce. Roby’s ability to impact the game in multiple ways made him a valuable asset to the team, as he could score, rebound, and defend with equal proficiency.
Though Roby went undrafted in the NBA, he continued to play professionally overseas, showcasing his skills on an international stage. His contributions to the Colorado basketball program helped pave the way for future generations of Buffs players, with his versatile playstyle serving as an inspiration for those who followed. Roby’s legacy is one of adaptability and success, exemplifying the well-rounded skill set that is prized in modern basketball.
Cory Higgins: A Reliable Performer
Cory Higgins, who played from 2007 to 2011, was a reliable performer for the Buffs, known for his scoring ability and consistency. Higgins is Colorado’s third all-time leading scorer, and his leadership and on-court performance were vital to the team’s success during his tenure. His ability to deliver in crucial moments made him an indispensable part of the Buffs’ lineup.
Higgins went on to have a successful professional career overseas, playing for top European clubs and further establishing his reputation as a skilled and dependable player. His impact on the Colorado basketball program remains significant, with his contributions setting a standard for future Buffs to strive towards. Higgins is remembered as one of the best Buffs ever, with his unwavering dedication to excellence serving as an example for all players.
McKinley Wright: The Modern-Day Star
McKinley Wright IV is a recent standout for the Colorado Buffaloes, playing from 2017 to 2021. Known for his leadership, playmaking ability, and clutch performances, Wright is one of the most celebrated players in recent Buffs history. He led the team to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and was a three-time All-Pac-12 selection, cementing his status as a modern-day star.
Wright’s impact on the program is profound, as he helped elevate Colorado basketball to national prominence. His ability to lead by example and make his teammates better was a defining characteristic of his tenure with the Buffs. After college, he signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves, continuing his basketball journey at the professional level. Wright’s legacy is one of leadership and inspiration, as he continues to inspire future generations of Buffs players.
Shaun Vandiver: A Towering Presence
Shaun Vandiver played for the Buffs from 1988 to 1991 and was known for his size and scoring ability. Standing at 6’10”, Vandiver was a dominant force in the paint, averaging a double-double during his college career. His contributions to the team helped Colorado achieve success in the Big Eight Conference, with his imposing presence making him a formidable opponent.
Vandiver was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1991 but chose to play professionally overseas, where he continued to excel. His impact on the program is still remembered today, with his towering presence serving as a reminder of the importance of size and skill in basketball. Vandiver is considered one of the top players in Buffs history, with his legacy living on in the hearts of fans and players alike.
Emmett Lewis: A Defensive Specialist
Emmett Lewis was known for his defensive skills and tenacity on the court, playing for the Buffs in the 1970s. As a key player in Colorado’s defensive schemes, Lewis helped the team achieve success during his tenure. His ability to disrupt opponents and create opportunities for his teammates made him an invaluable asset to the Buffs.
Though he may not have been a prolific scorer, Lewis’ contributions to the team were invaluable. His legacy as a defensive specialist remains strong in Buffs history, with his tenacious playstyle serving as an inspiration for future defensive stalwarts. Lewis’ dedication to defense and team success is a testament to the importance of every role in basketball, highlighting the impact that a committed defender can have on a team’s fortunes.
The Colorado Buffaloes men’s basketball program has seen many talented players throughout its history. From Chauncey Billups to McKinley Wright, these athletes have left a lasting impact on the program and have helped elevate Colorado basketball to new heights. Their contributions, both on and off the court, continue to inspire future generations of Buffs players. As the program continues to grow and evolve, the legacy of these players will remain a guiding light for all who wear the Buffs jersey.
