Cole Bassett Colorado Rapids #23 Midfielder Profile, Performance, and Impact

Cole Bassett? He’s been turning heads as the Colorado Rapids’ #23, and let me tell you, this kid brings speed, brains, and guts to the pitch every single game.

He’s the type of player who steps up when it matters, whether he’s pushing forward or hustling back on defense. Bassett just keeps the Rapids in the mix in Major League Soccer, plain and simple.

What jumps out about Bassett’s game? He reads plays fast, and he finds teammates in stride. His days with the Rapids’ U-23s really sharpened that edge you see now.

If you follow the Rapids, you keep hearing his name—he’s chalked up clutch goals and assists in some nail-biters. You can always check out more on his club career at the Colorado Rapids official site.

Here’s a quick look at some of Bassett’s recent stats:

Season	Games Played	Goals	Assists
2018	4	1	1

Want more numbers? Head over to Cole Bassett’s stats page.

Cole Bassett: Profile of a Colorado Rapids Midfielder

Bassett drives the Colorado Rapids midfield, no question about it.

His journey from Littleton, Colorado, to Major League Soccer really shows what local talent and hard work can do.

Early Life and Background

Bassett grew up in Littleton, Colorado, and soccer became his thing early on. You’d spot him out on those local fields, already showing flashes of what would set him apart from other young players.

He joined the Rapids academy as a teen, and that bond with the club made his MLS debut even sweeter. By 17, he’d made the jump from youth squads to the Rapids’ first team.

Fans loved his local roots and gritty playing style right away.

Bassett has stuck with the Rapids since 2018. He signed a multi-year extension, keeping him in Colorado through the 2027 MLS season.

You can always check his latest stats and info on his Colorado Rapids profile or ESPN stats page.

Position and Playing Style

Wearing #23, Bassett lines up as a midfielder, usually in an attacking role. You’ll see him reading the game, slipping into space, and threading passes to set up teammates.

He moves with purpose, keeps his cool on the ball, and doesn’t mind making those late runs into the box. That’s led to more than a few chances—and goals.

Bassett also hustles back and helps win the ball when the Rapids need it.

Cole Bassett’s Recent MLS Stats:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023	30	6	5
2024	28	5	4

His work rate and consistency really drive this Rapids midfield. Coaches love his vision and versatility, especially for such a young guy in the league.

Club Career with Colorado Rapids

Bassett’s story with the Rapids? It’s all about hard work, growth, and showing up for his team.

He’s a hometown kid who rose through the ranks and is now a staple in Major League Soccer.

Signing a Homegrown Contract

Bassett’s path started in the Rapids’ youth academy. In 2017, he joined the development system from Colorado Rush and quickly made a name for himself with his work ethic and skill.

By August 10, 2018, the Rapids signed him as a homegrown player. That’s a big deal—MLS clubs use that rule to lock down local talent for the senior squad.

Bassett’s homegrown signing meant Colorado could build around a local guy, which fans absolutely love. Not many players have gone straight from local youth soccer to the Rapids’ first team.

That contract set him up for his pro run and gave him the platform to make his mark in midfield.

Professional Debut and Early Impact

Bassett didn’t have to wait long after signing. In September 2018, he made his first-team debut against the Portland Timbers, coming off the bench and soon earning more time.

That shot came just weeks after he signed, showing the coaches really trusted him.

During his rookie year, Bassett got minutes in several matches and started adapting to the physical side of MLS. He wasn’t just filling space—he made key passes and started building chemistry with the vets.

You could see flashes of his potential even then. His movement and quick decisions were ahead of the curve for a first-year player.

Key Performances in MLS Seasons

Bassett’s role kept growing every season. By 2023, he was a regular starter and one of the league’s top young midfielders.

He’s logged over 2,000 minutes a year since breaking into the first team. That says a lot about his fitness and what he means to the Rapids.

Here’s a quick table with some of his MLS stats for Colorado:

Season	Appearances	Starts	Goals	Assists
2018	6	2	1	0
2019	23	13	2	2
2020	19	13	5	5
2021	31	23	5	2
2023	32	23	5	4
2025*	Ongoing	Ongoing	Ongoing	Ongoing

*Stats as available, always changing with each match.

He’s scored some crucial goals, including match-winners, and set up teammates with sharp assists. Bassett’s influence just keeps spreading across the midfield.

Notable Achievements and Awards

Bassett’s consistency has earned him plenty of recognition. He’s landed in the MLS Team of the Week—now called Team of the Matchday—multiple times.

At the club level, he’s picked up Young Player of the Year and even the Centennial 38 MVP from the fans. Getting chosen as Players’ Player of the Year says a lot about the respect he’s got in the locker room.

His leadership and stats have made him one of the most important homegrowns in Rapids history. With his contract running through 2027, there’s a lot more to come.

You can keep tabs on him through the Rapids’ official player page.

International Experience

Cole Bassett’s climb through U.S. Soccer really shows what he can do outside MLS, too.

He’s gotten the call for the U.S. Men’s National Teams, chasing the Olympic dream, and already has some big moments on the international stage.

U.S. Men’s National Teams

Bassett’s development shows up in his time with the United States Men’s National Teams. He first grabbed attention at the youth levels and then got picked for the USMNT December camp in 2021.

That told everyone U.S. Soccer believed in him.

He made his senior national team debut as a sub, bringing energy and poise right away. Against Bosnia and Herzegovina, he showed the same cool head we see in MLS.

His call-up put him alongside other young midfielders aiming to break into the USMNT core.

He’s gotten valuable minutes and learned from veterans and coaches. That’s a big step for any player with national team ambitions.

International Appearances Table

Team	Year	Appearances	Goals
USMNT (Senior)	2021–2022	2	1
U-23 (Olympic)	2024	TBA	TBA

Olympic Aspirations and the U-23 Team

Bassett’s drive took him to the U.S. Men’s Olympic Team, hoping to land a spot for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

In June 2024, he competed in Kansas City at a high-stakes camp with only 24 players invited. A lot of those guys, like Bassett, had already tasted action with the senior national team.

Making the Olympic squad isn’t easy, especially with the age limits. Bassett’s still in the right window and brings plenty of skill, so he’s right in the mix for a midfield role.

He played with other MLS and European-based prospects as U.S. Soccer tried to build a strong group for Paris.

His play at camp showed he can adapt, lead, and compete against tough competition. You can follow his Olympic journey through updates from the Colorado Rapids and US Soccer.

Memorable International Goals

Scoring for the U.S. is a milestone, and Bassett did it in style. In December 2021, he bagged his first senior international goal in just his second appearance.

That goal came late in a friendly with Bosnia and Herzegovina, sealing the win and showing his knack for big moments.

He found the right spot in the box and finished calmly, showing off those attacking instincts. He became one of the youngest to score for the USMNT in recent years, and folks definitely noticed.

Moments like that are why you want to keep an eye on Bassett, especially as he keeps chasing his international dreams and a shot at the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Loan Spells and European Experience

Bassett took his game to the Netherlands, spending time with two clubs and testing himself against European competition.

That kind of move gives you a whole new perspective on the game.

Time at Feyenoord

He joined Feyenoord, a Dutch giant, on loan from the Rapids. That’s a serious step up for any American midfielder.

Bassett played in the Eredivisie, a league famous for its speed and technical style.

At Feyenoord, he had to fight for minutes with guys who played in European competitions every year. Still, he made his debut and got on the field in both league and cup matches.

Here’s a look at his stats with Feyenoord:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2022	8	1	0

He trained under top coaches and picked up a lot from teammates with Champions League and Europa League experience.

That stint really sharpened his tactical awareness and made him play even quicker.

Fortuna Sittard Loan

Let’s talk about that next chapter—after Feyenoord, you packed your bags and landed at Fortuna Sittard on loan. Still in the Eredivisie, sure, but this time with a club fighting for every point.

At Fortuna Sittard, you finally got a real shot at regular minutes. The team needed players who could help them dodge relegation, so every week brought pressure. You could feel it.

You made your debut in a big home match. Coming off the bench in a 1-1 game, you brought some energy and started chasing a late winner.

Here’s a quick look at your stats at Fortuna Sittard:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2022-2023	10	0	1

Playing for Fortuna Sittard changed your view of European soccer. You saw what it’s like when survival and team tactics rule everything.

Your time in the Netherlands wrapped up with a return to the Colorado Rapids in 2023. That loan spell gave you experience at two very different clubs.

For more, check out Loan Update: Trusty, Bassett, Vines representing Rapids well overseas.

Youth and Development Pathway

Cole Bassett’s early years? They set the tone for everything that came next. He started with local youth clubs, picking up the basics, and then trained in the Rapids’ top development programs.

That foundation? It built him into a pro.

Rapids Academy and Development Academy

If you’re looking at Bassett’s story, the Rapids Academy is a huge part of it. He joined their Development Academy in 2017 and wasted no time making a mark.

He climbed through the U-16/17 and U-18/19 teams, then played for the Rapids’ U-23 squad in 2018. That season, he got into four games, scored once, and picked up an assist.

The Rapids Academy keeps things simple: top coaching, tough competition. Bassett’s rise shows how the Academy prepares players for Major League Soccer.

Training with other young talents gave him the edge to jump into the first team as a teenager.

Table: Bassett at Rapids Academy (2018)

Level	Appearances	Goals	Assists
U-23 Team	4	1	1

Colorado Rush and Local Youth Soccer

Before all that, Bassett played for the Colorado Rush. This club is famous for bringing up local stars.

With Rush, he learned the basics—teamwork, game sense, work ethic. Playing in Littleton meant weekly tests against area teams.

Those years at Rush set him up for the pro world. Jumping from local soccer to an MLS academy isn’t easy, but that Rush background made the move smoother.

Mixing local youth soccer with elite academy training? That’s how players like Bassett move up fast in American soccer.

If you’re tracking young prospects, his path shows why strong youth clubs and pro academies need to work together.

MLS Accolades and Noteworthy Moments

Cole Bassett’s run with the Colorado Rapids? Oh, it’s packed with memorable moments and some shiny hardware. He’s made noise in the league, standing out among the young guns and popping up in clutch opportunities.

MLS 22 Under 22 Recognition

Every year, MLS highlights the brightest young stars. The 22 Under 22 list? That’s the one you want to be on.

Bassett made the cut, thanks to his standout play as a Rapids midfielder. That’s no small feat.

This isn’t just a rookie list—it’s about under-22 players making a real impact. Bassett earned his spot by racking up goals, assists, and showing some real poise on the ball.

He got noticed for his technical play and how he handled older, tougher opponents in the midfield.

Getting on that list put him on the radar for national team scouts and European clubs. It’s a big sign: Bassett is one of the top young Americans in MLS.

Golden Boot Race

Scoring from midfield? That’s tough. Bassett, though, has a knack for finding the net in big moments.

The Golden Boot usually goes to a striker, but Bassett quietly put together some strong goal-scoring seasons as a midfielder.

Here’s a quick look at his best years:

Season	MLS Goals	Assists	Top Scorer Rank (Team)
2021	5	4	2
2022	6	5	1

He times his runs, finishes well, and always seems to pop up in the right spot. Even without winning the Golden Boot, his goals have been huge for the Rapids—especially in tight games and playoff pushes.

Game-Winning Goals

You want clutch? Bassett delivers when it matters most. He’s scored game-winners in the dying minutes, changing matches for Colorado.

Remember that stoppage-time winner against FC Dallas? That one got him MLS Team of the Week honors.

He also opened the scoring in a snowy home win, helping the Rapids grab a crucial three points.

When the clock’s ticking down, Bassett steps up. That’s the kind of mentality you want in your squad.

Matches Against Major Opponents

Let’s dig into how Bassett handles the Rapids’ biggest rivals. You’ll spot some trends—his role and performance often shift depending on who’s on the other side.

Portland Timbers Encounters

When Bassett lines up against Portland, you notice his work rate right away. He usually faces tough guys like Diego Chara, so he’s got to stay sharp.

Late in matches, Bassett pushes forward, helping the Rapids control the tempo. He may not always score against Portland, but his ability to link defense and attack stands out.

On the road at Providence Park, he often takes on more defensive work. He tracks back to cover Portland’s speedy wingers.

Physical battles and quick passing define these matchups.

Year	Matches	Goals	Assists	Minutes Played
2023	2	0	1	170
2024	1	0	0	88

Rivalries with Real Salt Lake

When Colorado meets Real Salt Lake, things get intense. Bassett’s role as a midfield engine becomes even more important.

In Rocky Mountain Cup clashes, you see him fighting for every loose ball, setting the tone from the start.

He’s always in the thick of it, battling RSL’s midfielders and launching counters when the game opens up.

In 2024, he notched a key assist in a 2-1 home win, showing once again he’s a big-game player.

These matches bring drama, late goals, and wild atmospheres. Bassett usually stays on the field the whole time unless a tactical change pulls him off.

Key stats in Rocky Mountain Cup:

• Assists: 2
• Tackles per match: 3.5
• Average minutes per game: 90

Games Against FC Dallas and Sporting KC

Facing FC Dallas and Sporting KC? Bassett has to be flexible. Sometimes he sits deep, sometimes he gets forward to test the back line.

Against Dallas, his movement is key. He finds space, offers passing options, and presses high when Dallas tries to play out.

Sporting KC brings a skilled midfield, so Bassett spends more time marking their danger men and breaking up play. His discipline helps Colorado keep their shape in tight games.

Opponent	Matches Played	Goals	Assists	Key Passes
FC Dallas	4	1	1	8
Sporting KC	3	0	1	5

Other Notable MLS Matchups

Against other Western Conference teams, Bassett keeps showing his versatility. Whether it’s San Jose, Seattle, or Austin, he adapts—sometimes as a playmaker, sometimes as a late-game closer.

Playing Seattle, he focuses on defense, cutting off passing lanes and keeping their midfielders quiet.

Against Austin, he gets more freedom to attack, helping the Rapids chase late goals.

Games with FC Cincinnati and New England Revolution? They’re usually more tactical, with fewer chances. Bassett’s calm on the ball and smart positioning shine in these battles.

Summary of notable stats:

• Matches vs. San Jose: 2, 1 goal, 0 assists
• Matches vs. Seattle: 3, 0 goals, 1 assist
• Matches vs. Austin: 2, 1 goal, 1 assist
• Matches vs. FC Cincinnati and New England Revolution: 3, 0 goals, 1 assist

As Bassett faces the league’s best, you really see his growth. Each opponent brings out a different part of his game—work rate, vision, toughness, leadership.

Home Stadium and Fan Community

Home games for Cole Bassett? They’re something special. You get the combo of a modern soccer stadium and a wild supporters’ section that makes every match feel big.

Dick’s Sporting Goods Park Experience

Step into Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, and the first thing you notice is the open-air design and those wide sightlines. The stadium was built for soccer, with space for 18,000 fans.

You’ve got options—down by the pitch or up in the family sections. On matchday, the concourse is packed with local food—think green chili and barbecue.

For players like Bassett, the grass field is a dream. It’s fast, even, and perfect for attacking soccer.

The park has also hosted big friendlies and U.S. Men’s National Team games.

Here’s a quick look at the stadium:

Feature	Detail
Location	Commerce City, Colorado
Seating Capacity	18,000
Surface	Natural Grass
Opened	April 2007

Night games? They’re electric. The Rocky Mountains in the distance, sun setting behind the stands—it’s a great scene.

Centennial 38 and Supporters

Behind every goal and big moment, you’ll find Centennial 38—the Rapids’ heartbeat in the north end. This group brings the noise with chants, drums, and nonstop singing.

If you want to experience local soccer culture, this is the place to be.

Centennial 38 does more than just cheer—they organize tailgates, charity events, and keep the fan base tight. Members travel for away games and work all year to keep matchdays lively.

They’re central to the Rapids’ identity, and past MVPs from this group have been recognized for their dedication.

When Bassett scores or makes a big play, you can count on a huge reaction from this end. The synchronized chants and flags turn his home performances into unforgettable moments, locking in that bond between player and crowd.

Media Presence and Ticketing

Fans love keeping up with Cole Bassett’s latest performances and figuring out how to catch Colorado Rapids matches. Honestly, nothing beats the thrill of seeing those highlights or grabbing tickets for a live game.

Latest Videos and Highlights

If you want to track what Cole Bassett’s doing on the pitch, you’ll find match highlights, interviews, and those fun behind-the-scenes clips on official club media and MLS outlets. The Colorado Rapids official site posts clips showing Bassett’s goals, assists, and those moments you’ll probably want to replay.

You can also check out ESPN’s player profile for a wider view. They’ve got highlights, post-match interviews, and recaps. Whether it’s a regular season game or something like the Leagues Cup, these spots keep you covered. Usually, new videos pop up within a few hours after the final whistle, so you’re not waiting around.

Finding Tickets and Match Information

Getting tickets to see Cole Bassett and the Rapids? Super easy. Just head to the official Rapids website, where you can grab single match or season tickets.

They lay out options for home and away matches, and sometimes you’ll spot special games at places like Gillette Stadium.

Here’s a quick look at ticket categories:

Ticket Type	Price Range	Benefits
General Admission	$	Standard seat
Premium Seating	$$	Better view, extras
Season Tickets	$$	All home games, perks

If it’s a big event like the Leagues Cup, you’ll want to book early. Those high-profile matches against top clubs sell out fast.

You can find match info, kickoff times, and stadium policies on the club’s fixture list before game day.

Influential Figures and Leadership

Cole Bassett’s growth as a midfielder? It’s honestly shaped by some big personalities and key leaders with the Colorado Rapids. Their influence pops up in the tactics, off-field development, and just the overall club vibe.

Coaching Staff and Mentors

Head coach Chris Armas leads the Rapids with a clear focus on structure, discipline, and attacking instinct. He brings experience from New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC, so there’s definitely a fresh perspective in the locker room.

Here’s what the coaching staff brings to the table:

• Tactical training that really hones quick transitions and midfield creativity
• One-on-one mentorship to help Bassett make sharper decisions when the pressure’s on
• Direct feedback and film sessions that point out both strengths and spots to improve

You’ll often see former club legends and assistant coaches around during training. Their presence brings motivation and a bit of an edge. Players find themselves pushed to step up every single week.

Take a look at how this coaching approach has impacted Bassett’s stats this season:

Leadership Area	Effect on Bassett
Tactical flexibility	6 goals in 2023
Player confidence	Increased key passes
Mentorship	Improved positioning

Rapids President Pádraig Smith

Let’s talk about Pádraig Smith, the guy steering the Rapids’ ship these days. As team president, he’s the one who really pushes that homegrown vision—there’s a sense of stability and direction you can almost feel around the club.

Smith’s all about long-term development, not quick fixes. He puts his money where his mouth is, backing young talent like Bassett and investing heavily in the academy system.

He keeps the focus tight on local Colorado players, which, honestly, is refreshing in a league full of big names chasing quick glory. Smith’s leadership goes way beyond just signing contracts or chasing the next big transfer.

He sets the tone for professionalism and growth, making sure every player hears the same message from the top. If you follow the Rapids, you can’t miss Smith’s commitment—he’s building an environment where guys like Bassett have a real shot at thriving for years.

Curious to dig deeper? Check out the official Rapids profile or take a look at Bassett’s Wikipedia page.