Kansas City, Mo. — On October 21, 2025, the Colorado Buffaloes women’s basketball program showcased its new leadership during the Big 12 Conference media day at the T-Mobile Center. Players Jade Masogayo and Kennedy Sanders were front and center, representing a team that has set high standards over the past five years.
Transitioning into Leadership Roles
The transition to a new leadership dynamic can be a complex challenge. While experienced players usually take on vocal leadership roles, becoming the face of a program requires a different level of commitment. JR Payne, the head coach of the Buffaloes, emphasized the importance of preparing younger athletes for this responsibility. “We’ve had such great upperclassmen over the years that have really helped kind of mold the younger ones as they’ve come along,” Payne stated during the event.
As part of their team-building efforts, Payne and his coaching staff focus on developing public speaking skills among players. “We tell them how important it is to know what you’re talking about,” he explained. This approach reinforces the idea that each player represents the program, even outside of practice or games.
Building on a Strong Foundation
The graduation of key players, such as Frida Formann and Kindyll Wetta, marks a significant change for the Buffaloes. These athletes contributed not only on the court but also provided essential leadership in the locker room and during media interactions. With their departure, Masogayo and Sanders are stepping into roles that demand both skill and resilience.
Masogayo, who was the team’s leading scorer and second-leading rebounder last season, acknowledged the importance of experience in her new role. “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,” she said. Her journey from a quiet player to a prominent leader illustrates the growth of the team and its commitment to development.
The media day also marked the unofficial start of CU’s second season back in the Big 12. The Buffaloes have enhanced their roster with the addition of Zyanna Walker, a transfer from Kansas State with prior Big 12 experience. This move aims to further bolster the team’s competitive edge as they navigate a challenging schedule.
Payne noted that adjusting to the Big 12’s scheduling format, which differs from the Pac-12, poses its own challenges. “One of the biggest things we had to adjust to was having the two days in between games. We were used to the Friday-Sunday rhythm,” he explained. Understanding this new dynamic is crucial for the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As the Buffaloes gear up for a demanding season, the leadership of Masogayo and Sanders will be pivotal in maintaining the program’s competitive spirit and fostering a cohesive team environment. With the groundwork laid by previous leaders and a clear focus on development, the future looks promising for the Colorado Buffaloes women’s basketball team.
