Cole Bassett Era in Colorado Rapids Nears End in $2.65 Million Deal with Portland Timbers
A pivotal moment has arrived for the Colorado Rapids as they are on the verge of parting ways with Cole Bassett, their homegrown star, in a transfer to the Portland Timbers. The deal, valued at $2.65 million with potential for an additional $1.05 million in conditional add-ons, was confirmed by a source to The Denver Post on Tuesday evening.
The move represents a significant shift for both clubs, utilizing a new intra-league cash trade mechanism within Major League Soccer that removes previous restrictions on such transactions. While the Rapids have been relatively quiet during the winter transfer window, this outbound move follows key signings and will free up a valuable U-22 slot on their roster.
Bassett, 24, embodies the success of the Rapids’ academy system. Joining at the U-16/17 level after developing with Colorado Rush, he quickly distinguished himself, even featuring for the U-23 team (now Rapids 2 in MLS NEXT Pro). He signed a first-team contract in 2018 at just 17 years old, becoming the youngest player to do so in club history.
Over seven seasons in Commerce City, Bassett amassed 155 regular-season appearances (128 starts), scoring 31 goals and providing 22 assists. His peak performance came in 2024 under then-coach Chris Armas, where he excelled as a box-to-box midfielder, achieving career highs with nine goals and seven assists while ranking among the league leaders in distance covered. That season, he was initially selected for the U.S. Olympic squad, only to be surprisingly removed from the roster days before the announcement – a setback he responded to with three goals and three assists in his next four games.
However, his role diminished last season as the team’s tactical approach evolved. Forced to play on the wing, Bassett struggled to replicate his previous form, finishing with just three goals and four assists. He openly expressed his dissatisfaction with the position, while maintaining his commitment to the team’s success. The arrival of new head coach Matt Wells, coupled with the $3 million acquisition of defensive midfielder Hamzat Ojediran, further signaled a shift away from the system that previously suited Bassett’s strengths.
The Rapids’ investment in Ojediran underscores their focus on bolstering their defensive midfield, an area where Bassett doesn’t naturally excel. The addition of CF Montréal winger Dante Sealy for $2 million in general allocation money is expected to fill a starting role in the season opener. The funds generated from Bassett’s transfer will be strategically allocated to address remaining roster needs ahead of the season opener against the Seattle Sounders on February 25th.
According to reports, the Rapids are seeking to add depth and experience to their defensive line, complementing existing center-back talent like Rob Holding and Ian Murphy. Strengthening the outside back positions is also a priority, following the departure of Rafael Santos. Offensively, the club may target a striker to provide support for Rafael Navarro and Darren Yapi.
Bassett’s return to Colorado is already scheduled, with the Rapids hosting the Timbers in their home opener on February 28th, offering a swift reunion for the player and his former club.
