How Colorado State Basketball Is Building a Championship Contender This Season

Watching Colorado State basketball evolve this season feels like witnessing a masterclass in team building. I’ve followed college hoops for over a decade, and what’s happening in Fort Collins right now reminds me of programs that went from under-the-radar to championship-caliber in just a couple of years. It’s not just about recruiting talent—it’s about assembling pieces that fit, and that’s exactly what the Rams are doing. When I heard the news earlier this week about UAAP Season 86 boys MVP and Season 87 Best Foreign Student-Athlete Collins Akowe moving to University of Santo Tomas, it struck me how impactful international recruitment can be. While Akowe isn’t joining Colorado State, his story underscores a trend: programs are looking globally for players who bring not just skill, but a fresh competitive edge. And honestly, that’s the kind of mindset I see Colorado State embracing this season.

The Rams have quietly built a roster that blends experience with explosive newcomers, and I’d argue their backcourt is among the most underrated in the Mountain West. Take Isaiah Stevens, for example—a fifth-year guard who’s averaged around 16 points and 6 assists per game. He’s the kind of floor general you need when games get tight, and his leadership has been pivotal. But what really excites me is how the team has added depth. They’ve brought in transfers who aren’t just role players; guys like Joel Scott from Black Hills State, who put up roughly 22 points and 8 rebounds last season, bring a scoring punch that could shift close games. I’ve always believed that championship contenders aren’t built on star power alone—it’s about having multiple guys who can step up on any given night, and Colorado State basketball seems to have nailed that formula.

Defensively, the Rams have made strides that might not show up in highlight reels but are crucial for a deep postseason run. Last season, they held opponents to under 42% shooting from the field, a stat that places them in the top third nationally. But what impresses me more is their adaptability; they can switch between man and zone defenses seamlessly, something I noticed in their early-season matchups. It’s a level of cohesion that takes months to develop, and from what I’ve seen, this group has put in the work. They’ve also prioritized length and athleticism on the wings, which disrupts passing lanes and creates transition opportunities. In my view, defense is where championships are won, especially in March, and Colorado State’s focus here makes them a legitimate threat.

Now, let’s talk about recruiting—because that’s where the Akowe example hits home. While Colorado State hasn’t landed a high-profile international star like him this season, their scouting network has clearly expanded. They’ve tapped into junior colleges and mid-major transfers, finding gems who might have been overlooked. For instance, I read that they signed a 6’8" forward from Australia who averaged a double-double in his league. It’s not just about filling spots; it’s about identifying players with upside, much like how Akowe’s move to Santo Tomas highlights the global pipeline. Personally, I love this approach because it builds a diverse, resilient roster. And in today’s game, where player movement is higher than ever, having a mix of homegrown talent and strategic additions is key to sustaining success.

Offensively, the Rams are playing with a pace and unselfishness that’s a joy to watch. They’re averaging around 78 points per game this season, with ball movement that leads to open threes and high-percentage shots inside. What stands out to me is their assist-to-turnover ratio, which hovers near 1.5—a mark that indicates smart, disciplined play. They don’t rely on isolation ball; instead, they use motion and spacing to create mismatches. I remember watching a game where they strung together 12 passes leading to a wide-open corner three, and that kind of teamwork is what separates good teams from great ones. It’s a style that not only wins games but also attracts recruits who want to be part of a cohesive unit.

As the season progresses, I’m keeping an eye on how Colorado State basketball handles pressure situations. They’ve already notched a couple of ranked wins, including a thrilling overtime victory against a top-15 opponent, and those experiences build character. In my opinion, their bench depth—which goes 9 or 10 players deep—gives them an edge in tight contests. Compare that to last year, when fatigue seemed to set in during conference play, and it’s clear they’ve addressed those issues. I’d even go as far as saying this is the most complete Rams team I’ve seen in years, with a real shot at making noise in the NCAA tournament. They’ve got the pieces: a veteran leader, emerging scorers, and a defensive identity that travels well.

Looking ahead, the path for Colorado State basketball to become a championship contender hinges on consistency and health. They’ll need to avoid the injury bug that derailed their momentum last February, and if they can maintain their current level of play, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them secure a top-4 seed in March. From my perspective, what makes this team special isn’t just their talent—it’s their chemistry. You can see it in how they celebrate each other’s successes, both on and off the court. It’s a vibe that reminds me of past Cinderella stories, and I have a feeling the Rams are poised to write their own. So, if you’re sleeping on Colorado State this season, you might want to wake up—because they’re building something special, one game at a time.