GEORGETOWN, Colo. – The University of Colorado Buffaloes proved to be formidable competitors across multiple sports disciplines recently, marking the start of 2025 with stellar performances from the ski team and notable achievements from their football recruits.
On January 6, 2025, at Loveland Ski Area, the Buffaloes ski team excelled at the RMISA Qualifier, showcasing their abilities against rival schools. Filip Wahlqvist led the men's alpine team, claiming victory and solidifying his reputation as one of the top slalom skiers. Having previously ranked as the top slalom skier in the RMISA last season, Wahlqvist demonstrated his exceptional skill by starting the second run from 30th position and still managing to finish first with a time of 1:27.23. With this latest win, he has secured his fifth collegiate racing victory, matching other legends from the program's history.
Meanwhile, Etienne Mazellier finished third, achieving his first collegiate podium performance, and Ashley Campbell shone among the women, taking third as well. Campbell's finishes were notable as they constituted her first top 5 and top 10 finishes, establishing her presence within the competitive ski ranks. "The Buffs should have competitive alpine teams on both the men’s and women’s side," according to reports, marking the start of what could be another remarkable season.
But it wasn’t just the slopes where the Buffaloes were making headlines. The football team welcomed incredible news with former North Crowley star Quentin Gibson being named MaxPreps National Player of the Year. Gibson's statistics were nothing short of remarkable: he completed 93 receptions, capped 2,009 yards, and scored 36 touchdowns during his senior season, framing him as one of Texas's all-time greats. His jaw-dropping performances included clutch moments, like the stunning 75-yard touchdown on the first play of the state championship game, which concluded with North Crowley winning against Westlake 50-21.
Gibson’s accolade marks the first time the three-star prospect has claimed the National Player of the Year title. "Gibson’s clutch performances defined his senior season," reported by Steven Corder, as the recruit steps forward to join Deion Sanders’ program at Colorado. His adept playmaking ability has already begun to stir excitement among Buffaloes fans, eager to see how soon he can impact the team.
The Colorado football program is also grappling with significant changes following their recent seasons, as they look to rebound after facing setbacks, including disappointing losses such as the painful 36-14 defeat against BYU in the Valero Alamo Bowl. Despite these challenges, the Buffaloes are optimistic with strategic signs of improvement, including welcoming commitments from experienced linebackers like Martavius French from UTSA and Zarian McGill from Louisiana Tech.
Basketball has not been exempt from the changes either. Colorado coach Tad Boyle has been focusing on filtering players through the transfer portal, adapting to the rapidly changing dynamics of college sports. The women's basketball team has reached the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 recently, but they face their own hurdles as they pursue greater success.
Another poignant moment for the Buffaloes community was the passing of Lt. Evis McGee, who served as security for Coach Deion Sanders. His contributions were recognized fondly by fans and players alike.
Combined, these developments across skiing, football, and basketball paint the picture of how the University of Colorado Buffaloes are striving to reestablish themselves as power players not just within the Pac-12 but nationally across all sports. Their recent achievements and bright prospects, particularly with recruits like Gibson, shine half light on the road to future successes.
This season is shaping up to be tremendously significant for the Buffalo teams, and as fans look on, the anticipation builds. With each sport having its own hurdles, fortitude, and promise, it’s clear the Buffaloes aim for nothing less than excellence both on and off the field.