Colorado's Tacko Ifaola becoming more viable bench option

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Tacko Ifaola, a freshman forward for the Colorado Buffaloes, has been seeing more playing time recently due to injuries and foul trouble for the team's starting center, Elijah Malone. While Ifaola remains raw offensively, he has shown promise on the defensive end and on the boards, providing a solid contribution in limited minutes. With Malone and backup forward Alon Michaeli struggling, Ifaola could soon become a more viable option off the bench for the Buffs, who are in the midst of a five-game losing streak.

Why it matters

Ifaola's increased playing time comes at a crucial juncture for the Buffaloes, who are trying to turn around their season and make a push in the Big 12 Conference. The team has struggled with rebounding and interior defense, areas where Ifaola's physical presence and effort could provide a boost. If Ifaola can continue to develop and earn more minutes, he could be a key piece for Colorado as they look to upset ranked opponents like Iowa State.

The details

Ifaola has played in back-to-back games for the first time in Big 12 play, coming off the bench when Malone fouled out or was injured. In those appearances, Ifaola recorded one offensive rebound in each game, a modest but solid contribution for a team that has struggled on the offensive glass. While Ifaola remains raw offensively, he has the highest ceiling for defense and rebounding among the Buffs' centers, and with Malone and Michaeli struggling, Ifaola could soon see more playing time.

• On January 17, Ifaola played 5 minutes after Malone fouled out at West Virginia.
• In the next game on January 20, Ifaola played again after Malone was injured early against Kansas.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Buffaloes will face a tough test on Thursday when they take on the 8th-ranked Iowa State Cyclones. Boyle believes that taking care of the ball and getting good shots will be key to any upset bid by Colorado.