Last Saturday Colorado lost to Oregon 75-68 in the last-ever Pac-12 tourney title game but still earned an at-large bid to this week’s NCAA tournament. The Buffaloes have been in the NIT each of the past 2 years but thanks to tying a school record with 24 wins this year they are heading back to the NCAA tourney for the 1st time since 2021. Earlier today HoopsHD’s Jon Teitel got to speak with Colorado dancer Regan Poppen about her team’s remarkable run.
You grew up in Overland Park, KS: what made you choose Colorado? I wanted a school with a good dance program/dance team. It is fun to cheer for good athletic teams and our dance team competes on a national level every January as well. I love the weather/campus/everything about Colorado.
You are pursuing double majors in integrative physiology/sociology: why did you choose those subjects? I knew that I wanted to be pre-med but am still undecided about anesthesiology/surgery/physical therapy. My adviser said that integrative physiology would cover a wide range of requirements, and I like sociology because it takes humanity into consideration.
What is the post-graduation plan? I will probably take a gap year because applying for med school is very intense. I might need some more time since I have been so devoted to my sport: perhaps I will go abroad as well?
1 of the initiatives you are most passionate about is the Special Olympics: what makes it so special for you? Growing up I had friends/neighbors with special needs. My elementary school principal would put me in classes with them and later I was in a “connections” class that integrated everyone together. Sports and inclusion can make a big difference in the lives of those with disabilities so I love that the Big 12 (where Colorado will be next season) is partnering with the Special Olympics.
How long have you been dancing for, and what is the best part of being on the dance team? I have been dancing since age 4 but did not get seriously committed to it until high school. The best part is the people you meet: the teammates/coaches/opportunities are unmatched and I am so grateful because I know those relationships will help me farther down the road in life.
What was your favorite memory from this season: beating Oregon in January, Senior Night win vs. Stanford a couple of weeks ago, other? Senior Night is probably my favorite memory: it was an opportunity for our entire squad to be together at the same time, which does not usually occur because we have to cover so many different events. I love all those girls and it was a fabulous game to watch. I love watching the Buffs play hard so March Madness will probably replace that as my favorite memory because it is INSANE!
Your women’s basketball team also made the NCAA tourney: how excited is everyone on campus? Everyone is thrilled. I was in Las Vegas for the Pac-12 tourney and the women’s team deserves their high ranking because they are fabulous. I have met some of the players on that team, which makes me want to cheer for them even harder. They are kind/hardworking so we are really excited for them.
How does your school decide who gets to go to the NCAA tourney, and what will it mean to you to see your group doing its thing in front of a national TV audience? There is some variation. First off is seniority, then availability, then “appearance points” based on our community involvement beyond attending games. Some people read to elementary students or go to a retirement home or help out at a shelter.
Does your squad have anything extra-special planned for Dayton? We are excited to be here and will work with the cheer team to raise everyone’s spirit/energy. It is fun to work alongside the band/mascot as well so I just hope we win!
Any predictions for your game against Boise State on Wednesday? I think it is going to be a great game and of COURSE I have all the faith in our Buffs!