Juniors Marcus Byrd and Brett Olson didn’t become teammates when they started their careers as Pios, but have been on the court with each other since middle school.

From Highlands Ranch, Colo., both Byrd and Olson have been playing basketball their entire lives and have been on the same team together for eight years.

“We grew up playing together and I actually played against him [Byrd] for a little in middle school. Then we played together from seventh grade on,” said Olson.

The Highlands Ranch High School basketball team started to improve and even made a run at the state championship during Byrd and Olson’s senior year.

“It was always my goal to play college basketball. I’ve had a lot of fun and success at DU,” Olson said.
In addition to being teammates on their high school team, Byrd and Olson also played together on the local club team, Next Level.

“I think we played really well together just because we have played with each other and have had that chemistry for so long. I think it helps that we can bring that to the table for our team,” said Olson.
Both players claim the chemistry they’ve developed together on the court has improved their individual level of play along with the cohesion of the team.

“I think we are one of the closest teams in the country. We bond really well and I think it shows up well on the court,” said Olson.

Byrd, who is majoring in economics, and Olson, who is majoring in finance, both agreed that finding a balance between school and Division I basketball wasn’ t easy, but once they were adjusted both became equal priorities. Off and on the court, they are each other’s support and encouragement.

“We played well together in high school and we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. It was definitely nice coming to college with a close friend,” said Byrd.

Throughout their seasons as Pioneers, Byrd and Olson have each had memorable career moments.
Playing different positions, Byrd as a forward and Olson as a guard, the players still manage to maintain a special bond that allows them to excel together and apart.

“Whenever one of us isn’t playing well, we know how to pick each other up,” said Byrd.
The Pioneers have three games remaining in Magness Arena this season.