Cole Bassett returns to Colorado Rapids in Timbers jersey

Midfielder relishes emotional homecoming despite 2-0 loss to former team

Mar. 2, 2026 at 9:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Less than a month after being traded from the Colorado Rapids to the Portland Timbers, midfielder Cole Bassett made his return to Dick's Sporting Goods Park on Saturday. Bassett, who spent eight seasons with the Rapids and is the club's all-time leading Homegrown player, was given a tribute video before the match but was booed by fans whenever he touched the ball. Despite the loss, Bassett said it was a "meaningful game" and he was glad to be back to catch up with former teammates and family.

Why it matters

Bassett's return to Colorado highlights the emotional toll of professional sports trades, where players must quickly adapt to new teams and environments. The Rapids' tribute and fans' reaction show the lasting impact Bassett had on the club and community during his time there.

The details

Bassett was traded to the Timbers in January after the Rapids gave him a choice to either stay in Colorado or test the waters elsewhere. He started Saturday's match against his former team, which the Rapids won 2-0. Bassett was arguably the Timbers' best player, but the Rapids defense was able to limit his impact. Fans in the southeast corner of the stadium booed Bassett whenever he touched the ball, which he said was "in good fun" and a response to his previous comments about wanting to score against Colorado.

  • Less than a month ago, Bassett was in Orlando for the Rapids' preseason.
  • Bassett was traded to the Timbers in January.
  • Bassett made his return to Dick's Sporting Goods Park on Saturday, March 1, 2026.

The players

Cole Bassett

A midfielder who spent eight seasons with the Colorado Rapids, making 155 regular-season appearances, scoring 31 goals, and providing 22 assists. He is the club's all-time leading Homegrown player.

Portland Timbers

The MLS club that acquired Bassett in a trade with the Colorado Rapids in January 2026.

Colorado Rapids

The MLS club that Bassett played for from 2018 to 2026 before being traded to the Portland Timbers.

Zack Steffen

The Colorado Rapids goalkeeper who made saves to deny the Timbers in their 2-0 loss.

Darren Yapi

A Colorado Rapids forward who interrupted Bassett's post-match interview to give him a hug.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It definitely is weird. I was kind of hoping for a bit more time, but at the same time you get a lot of emotion built up to go out there and perform today, you get a lot of family and stuff that comes back and supports. It was a meaningful game for me, and I knew that after (the Rapids') performance last week, they'd be on top of stuff today. … Special to be back, but it was a weird one. I'm glad that it's out of the way.”

— Cole Bassett

“It's great to see him. We miss him, but we're really happy for him. It's something that everybody has to do in life: You've got to take the next step into the next chapter and challenge yourself. Really proud of him for taking it head on, and we wish him the best.”

— Zack Steffen, Colorado Rapids goalkeeper

What’s next

The Rapids will continue their MLS season, while Bassett and the Timbers will look to build on their early-season performances.

The takeaway

Bassett's emotional return to Colorado highlights the bittersweet nature of professional sports trades, where players must balance their loyalty to a club and community with the realities of the business side of the game. The Rapids' tribute and fans' reaction show the lasting impact Bassett had during his time in Commerce City.