Maeve McErlane Shines in Return to Court for CU Buffs

UPDATE: Maeve McErlane made a triumphant return to the basketball court, showcasing her skills for the first time in 20 months. The junior guard for the CU Buffs played in an exhibition game against the Colorado School of Mines on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in her recovery journey.

Despite the game not officially counting, the excitement was palpable for McErlane, who missed the entire 2024-25 season due to a torn labrum in her hip. Her last competitive outing was on March 8, 2024, against Seton Hall in the Big East Tournament. McErlane expressed her elation, saying, “It was just surreal… it’s just like a breath of fresh air.”

Head Coach JR Payne praised McErlane’s hard work and positivity, stating, “It’s wonderful to see her back on the floor… she’s very easy to root for.” McErlane, originally from Philadelphia, averaged 4.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists during her last season with DePaul.

In her return game, McErlane scored two points and faced challenges, going 1-for-8 from the field, including 0-for-6 from three-point range. However, she remained undeterred, highlighting the support from her teammates and coaches. “Just being a part of an environment like that is truly something special,” she said.

The Buffs boast a talented roster of guards, including Kennedy Sanders, Desiree Wooten, and Anna Gooden. Coach Payne’s strategy for utilizing these players will be pivotal as the season progresses. McErlane brings a steady, veteran presence to the team, reinforcing the depth of the Buffs’ backcourt.

McErlane emphasized her excitement about the team’s potential this season, stating, “The offense that we run is just literally for everyone… the coaches want you to take your open shot.” Her focus remains on executing her role and contributing to the team’s success.

Leading up to the game, McErlane felt the familiar pre-game jitters, attributed to her long absence from competitive play. “There were some good pre-game jitters… going into games you want to have those nerves,” she noted, expressing her enthusiasm for being back on the court.

As the CU Buffs gear up for the regular season, all eyes will be on McErlane as she continues her comeback. Fans and teammates alike are eager to witness her journey unfold, making her a player to watch in the upcoming games.