Maeve McErlane Returns to Court in CU Buffs Exhibition Game

BREAKING: Maeve McErlane made an emotional return to the court for the Colorado Buffaloes women’s basketball team during an exhibition game against the Colorado School of Mines, marking her first appearance in 20 months. This pivotal moment took place on Wednesday, as McErlane showcased her resilience after a challenging period sidelined by injury.

McErlane, a junior guard who previously played for DePaul, expressed her excitement: “It was just surreal. Being able to play with girls who believe in you… it’s just like a breath of fresh air.” After missing the entire 2024-25 season due to a torn labrum, her gameplay is a significant comeback for the Buffs.

In the exhibition, McErlane contributed 2 points and fought through a tough shooting night, going 1-for-8 from the floor, including 0-for-6 from three-point range. However, she remained upbeat, stating, “Just being a part of an environment like that is truly something special.”

CU head coach JR Payne praised McErlane’s dedication and positivity: “It’s wonderful to see her back on the floor. She’s such a great teammate and works hard. She’s very easy to root for.”

The Buffs are loaded with talent in the backcourt, featuring players like Kennedy Sanders, Desiree Wooten, and Anna Gooden. The excitement around McErlane’s return adds depth to a promising season ahead, as she aims to integrate into the team’s dynamic offense.

“The offense that we run is just literally for everyone,” McErlane noted. “There’s always opportunities for each and every player.” As she continues to shake off the rust from her long hiatus, her focus remains on contributing to the team’s success.

McErlane acknowledged the pre-game nerves, which stemmed from her lengthy absence: “There were some good pre-game jitters, but I would say that they were some good excited nerves.” This return is not just a personal victory for McErlane, but a pivotal moment for the CU Buffs as they look ahead to the season.

As the season progresses, fans and teammates alike are eager to watch McErlane’s journey unfold, hopeful for a strong comeback and an impactful season for the CU Buffs. Stay tuned for further updates on her performance and the team’s developments as they prepare for their upcoming games.