Jon Mani’s unique journey from hills to mountains and his future with Colorado

Jon Mani cites Bangot Dak's experience as something he pulls from when improving his game. (Photo by Oliver Hayes/Sko Buffs Sports)

In April of the 2025 offseason, the Colorado Buffaloes added to their transfer portal class with a local prospect. Denver transfer Jon Mani now looks for sophomore success in the Big 12.

Mani, a native of Beverly Hills, California, was hailed as a 3-star recruit out of high school (247sports). In his freshman year at Denver, the 6-foot-7 guard made his way onto the court in all but two of the Pioneers’ games. He played a rotational guard role for the team and averaged 2.9 points, 1.6 rebounds and 0.5 assists per game. 

He then hit the transfer portal on April 3rd and ultimately committed to CU on April 29th.

His journey through the transfer portal was unique compared to that of most other athletes. He was in the portal at the same time as his older brother, Jac. They visited CU at the same time and were eyeing down the idea of joining the same program.

“That’s definitely something that was a goal of mine, and I think his as well,” Mani said following practice on Wednesday. “[for] my parents, that would be cool for us to play together, but at the end of the day, it's [about] what’s best for each other.”

While Colorado was the right choice for Jon, Jac ended up committing to Fresno State. Jac transferred to the Bulldogs by way of UC Davis, so his choice may have been rooted in a desire to remain in his home state.

So while the brothers’ dream of playing D1 basketball together didn’t come to fruition, Jon still found it valuable to have his brother with him during his first experience in such a large transition.

“It was cool going through the process with someone I’m so close with,” Mani said. “I can rely on him, we can rely on each other [while] going through a time that’s pretty stressful.”

Since arriving in Boulder, Mani has integrated well into his new team. He’s quickly learned and adapted to the expectations in play and mentality of head coach Tad Boyle. 

“Defense and rebounding,” Mani said. “Those two are key. Rebounding, defense and effort every day, trying to keep your game sharp.” 

Boyle feels like Mani has taken this team mantra to heart, especially with his performance in the Buffs’ summer exhibition trip to Australia, in which he was the team’s leading rebounder at the guard position.

“What I love about him the most is how hard he plays,” Boyle said. “He makes things happen on the floor both defensively and offensively…the fact that he plays with great energy, toughness and competitiveness is what makes him who he is.”

Boyle has not only seen major potential in his physical ability, but the character Mani brings to the team as well.

“Number one, he’s got great character, and that’s a non-negotiable,” Boyle continued. “From a coaching staff standpoint, in terms of the kids we recruit, every player on our team has character…and Jon is no exception to that.”

Mani, like many of the other young players on this roster, has pulled from the experience of his veteran teammates in developing his skillset. Players like Bangot Dak and Barrington Hargess have stood out as mentors for him and have prepared him well for his first season in the program.

“I look up to those two,” Mani said. “ [I’ve been] trying to take tips and stuff like that from them, it’s been smooth.”

 The young guard now looks to impact the team in his first season and continue to develop over the coming years. With high praise from his coaching staff, Mani aims to prove this program right for trusting in him, as it hopes to have struck transfer portal gold from just down the road.