Gopher Basketball
| Game Info | |
| Opponent: | UNLV Runnin’ Rebels |
| When: | Noon, December 10th, 2005 |
| Where: | Williams Arena ““ Minneapolis, MN |
| Television: | Fox Sports Net |
The Grierless era for the Gophers is nearing an end now that Vince has returned to practice, but it’s likely to continue for at least one game. That doesn’t seem nearly as grim now after Minnesota pulled out a tough overtime victory at Arizona State. And with Moe Hargrow hopefully able to get back into the action, the Gophers have a good chance to extend their winning streak.
Here are my Gopher Keys of the Game:
1. Free Throws. I can’t not put this one first after the Gophers missed 22 free throws Monday night. It almost cost them the game, and it definitely will against better teams. They need to get that out of there system right now.
2. Close Out the Game. Minnesota had a couple of possessions to put Gardner-Webb away, and they let a double-digit lead evaporate against Arizona State. Last year’s Gopher team pulled out a lot of close games, and this year’s group needs to get that attitude as well. Granted much of that will return when Vince does, but the rest of the guys need to pull their weight as well. They need to make clutch free throws, take good shots, play smart, and not get conservative or tentative.
3. Win. Ok, I’m out of keys. But winning isn’t a bad thing to shoot for. The Gardner-Webb loss was unfortunate, but if the Gophers can win out for the rest of 2005, they’ll have just 2 nonconference losses and will be in decent NCAA shape heading into Big Ten play. They really need to hold court in The Barn.
UNLV’s 2-4 record is deceiving, as their losses have been to a good Nevada team and on the road against Oregon State, Oklahoma State, and Hawaii. But the Gophers should be able to win at home ““ especially if Moe is able to go. My prediction: Minnesota 71 UNLV 66.
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