Kansas City, Missouri, served as the backdrop for a significant moment in the evolution of the Colorado Buffaloes women’s basketball program. During the Big 12 women’s basketball media day on October 21, 2025, head coach JR Payne introduced players Jade Masogayo and Kennedy Sanders as key figures in the team’s transition towards a new era of leadership. With the departure of seasoned players, the Buffaloes are poised to build upon their recent successes in the Big 12.
The Big 12 Conference media day highlighted the challenges and opportunities that come with shifting team dynamics. While maintaining a competitive edge is often achieved through rigorous training and practice routines, the responsibility of leadership extends beyond the court. As the new leaders of the program, Masogayo and Sanders will play crucial roles in guiding younger teammates through both triumphs and setbacks.
Payne emphasized the importance of developing leaders within the team. “We’ve had such great upperclassmen over the years that have really helped mold the younger ones as they’ve come along,” he stated. The team engages in various activities designed to prepare players for their roles, including public speaking exercises that build confidence and communication skills. “We tell them how important it is to know what you’re talking about and different things like that,” Payne added, reinforcing the idea that every player represents the program, both on and off the court.
The Buffaloes face a notable adjustment this season, having lost key contributors like Frida Formann and Kindyll Wetta, who played pivotal roles during three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances from 2022 to 2024. Their absence creates a void not just in skills but in leadership that the team will need to address.
Masogayo, who was the team’s leading scorer and second-leading rebounder last year, acknowledged the significance of stepping up. “I would definitely say it comes with experience,” she remarked. “Playing college basketball as long as we have, we have a ton of experience that way. I feel like I can credit my coaches. They’ve really been harping on me to be more of a vocal leader and try to get out of my comfort zone and pave the way for this team.”
The upcoming season promises fresh challenges, particularly with the addition of Zyanna Walker, a transfer from Kansas State who brings valuable Big 12 experience. With the league now consisting of 16 teams, the Buffaloes will encounter numerous new venues and opponents. Payne acknowledged the learning curve that comes with adjusting to the different scheduling and travel requirements. “One of the biggest things we had to adjust to was having the two days in between [games],” he explained. The previous format in the Pac-12 allowed for a more predictable rhythm, but the transition to the Big 12 requires flexibility and adaptability.
As the Colorado Buffaloes embark on their second season back in the Big 12, the combination of emerging leadership and strategic adjustments will be crucial. With players like Masogayo and Sanders at the helm, the program aims to continue raising its competitive standards while fostering a positive and resilient team culture. The upcoming season is set to commence with high expectations and a renewed sense of purpose.
