Long Journey for the Buffs
BOULDER — For the members of the Colorado men’s basketball team, the upcoming 17-hour flight from Denver to Australia is set to be the longest journey they’ve experienced. The exception is new assistant coach Nate Tomlinson, who is well acquainted with such travels.
Nate’s Familiar Territory
Tomlinson, a native of Sydney, is returning for his third time with the Buffaloes — first as a player from 2008 to 2012, then as an assistant coach under Tad Boyle from 2018 to 2021. Having made this trip numerous times over the last two decades since relocating to the U.S., he is excited for his family’s first visit back in two years.
Excitement About the Trip
“We’re very fortunate,” Tomlinson shared with The Denver Gazette. “On a personal level, it’ll be wonderful for my family to reconnect with relatives. Taking my team to Australia for games and coaching experiences will also immensely benefit our recruiting efforts, focusing on a region we’re keen to explore.”
International Opportunities
College basketball teams can undertake international trips every four years. The Buffs last went to Costa Rica in 2021 and Italy in 2017. This year, Coach Boyle aims to showcase the program to top Australian prospects interested in U.S. college basketball.
The Itinerary
Scheduled to depart on Wednesday and return on August 5, the Buffs will play four games, including a match against the Australian national team on July 31 at the Gold Coast Sports & Leisure Center, a venue for the 2032 Summer Olympics. Notably, freshman Fawaz “Tacko” Ifaola and junior Bangot Dak, recovering from surgery, will miss the trip.
Building Relationships
One notable game will be against the Sydney Kings, where Tomlinson’s father, Bill, serves as an assistant coach. Coach Boyle acknowledged the advantage of having Tomlinson on staff, emphasizing the importance of fostering relationships within Australian basketball to enhance recruitment opportunities in the future.
Tomlinson’s Journey
Since departing Colorado in 2021 for an assistant position at George Mason, Tomlinson has gained valuable experience at Providence. His return to Colorado, drawn by personal ties and familiarity with the Boulder area, was motivated by the strong commitment he perceives in the basketball program and the enriching environment for his family. “Driving into the campus always feels surreal,” he reflected, underlining his deep connection to the place.
