Coach Prime knows how to turn up the heat in Colorado. He transformed the CU Buffs spring game into a major festive event, raising the bar for future spring games in Boulder. He fueled the excitement a week before the event by confirming the presence of lightweight boxing star Ryan Garcia,, who came fresh off a championship win.
Garcia’s presence was a major attraction, with all 28,424 seats in the stadium sold out. However, the real highlight came after the game when Garcia surprised everyone with a heartfelt tribute to the Buffs’ star player, Travis Hunter. This act of solidarity not only left Hunter’s fiancée, Leanna Lenee, deeply moved but also showcased the strong bond within the team.
Ryan Garcia Dons Travis Hunter’s jersey number
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Garcia’s involvement didn’t end with his presence at the CU Buffs spring game. He further demonstrated his support by visiting Coach Prime’s office dressed in a full Buffs uniform, complete with the number 12 jersey. This was a significant gesture, as it was the same jersey number worn by the team’s star player, Travis Hunter. The act left Hunter’s fiancée, Leanna Lenee, deeply touched, and she shared the moment on her Instagram story, expressing her admiration for the tribute.
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The head coach was clearly amused with Garcia’s dedication to the event. Deion even playfully sparred with the boxer and picked up a few moves. While doing so, Garcia casually mentioned winning $12 million with his recent title, leaving Coach Prime screaming, “You gotta call me, dawg!” The whole interaction was fun to watch, but it was easy to miss how it was a heartfelt tribute to star player Travis Hunter through his jersey number.
CU Buffs spring game wrap-up with hope
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Travis Hunter, missing from the “sparring video,” seemed busy elsewhere. After the spring game, Hunter spent the afternoon signing merch for fans after the game. Some fans got autographs and photos of the Buffs’ star for a limited time with a purchase.
Hunter and fellow Buff hopeful Shedeur Sanders took the field a while before, but only for a few series against backups. However, fans got a sneak peek at some new transfers who will be crucial teammates for Hunter and Sanders in the upcoming season. In a way, the spring game also served as a showcase for potential recruits visiting the program. Coach Prime, looking to rebuild after a disappointing 4-win season last year, made full use of this opportunity. With Hunter and Sanders projected for the 2025 NFL Draft, the team is capitalizing on their star power this season in Boulder.