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CU Basketball Legacy Returns Home: Former Buff Star Nate Tomlinson Joins Coaching Staff in Boulder

Ethan Reynolds

Ethan Reynolds

— 2 min read

In a significant move for Colorado basketball, former University of Colorado point guard and staff member Nate Tomlinson is making his triumphant return to Boulder, strengthening local ties to the program that has become a cornerstone of Front Range sports culture.

Head coach Tad Boyle announced Thursday that Tomlinson will rejoin the Buffaloes' coaching staff, filling the position left vacant when fellow CU alum Zach Ruebesam departed to lead CSU-Pueblo's program. The appointment marks a homecoming that resonates deeply with the Colorado basketball community.

"In the 15 years I've been here, two of the greatest Buffs we've had are on our staff now, with Evan Battey and now with Nate coming back," said Boyle. "To bring him back to Buff Nation along with his family, Rebecah (a former CU volleyball player) and their three daughters, just warms my heart."

Deep Colorado Roots

Tomlinson's connection to Colorado basketball runs deep, with impressive achievements including:

  • 405 career assists (tied for 7th in team history)
  • 112 starts (7th all-time)
  • Member of the 2011-12 Pac-12 Conference tournament championship team
  • Previous service as CU's director of player development (2019-2021)

Professional Endorsements

Former Colorado stars now in the NBA have enthusiastically endorsed Tomlinson's return. Boston Celtics guard Derrick White praised his former teammate:

"Nate has always been great to be around and his knowledge of the game is high level. Love having former Buffs coaching future Buffs!"

"Nate has always been great to be around and his knowledge of the game is high level. Love having former Buffs coaching future Buffs!"

Impact on Colorado Basketball

The appointment strengthens Colorado's basketball program at a crucial time, as the team prepares for an exhibition tour in Tomlinson's native Australia. His return also reinforces the program's commitment to maintaining strong connections with its successful alumni while building for the future.

Expressing his enthusiasm for returning to Colorado, Tomlinson stated simply:

"My family and I are so excited to be back. This is home. Let's get back to work!"

"My family and I are so excited to be back. This is home. Let's get back to work!"

For Colorado basketball fans from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs, Tomlinson's return represents another step in building a program that continues to make the Centennial State proud while developing local talent and maintaining strong community connections.

This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.

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