- 11/8/2024 10:10:00 PM
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As the Gophers men’s basketball team returns to practice, head coach Ben Johnson is brimming with optimism, expecting to see significant improvements this season. With a roster shake-up that brings together a blend of experience and ambition, the stage is set for an exciting journey ahead!
With only five players returning from last season, Johnson has strategically turned to the transfer portal, prioritizing seasoned upperclassmen over high school recruits. He recognized that to compete effectively, the team needed a solid foundation built on experience rather than youthful inexperience.
One of the focal points for improvement this season is senior forward Dawson Garcia. With aspirations to become the first Gopher to achieve All-American status since Bobby Jackson in 1997, Garcia is prepared to lead the charge.
Johnson is confident that the depth of experience among his players will allow him to utilize a variety of lineups effectively, especially in crucial game moments.
"There’s groups of guys that you could put together all the way to 11 or 12," Johnson said, indicating his comfort level with the roster depth. "You won’t see them out there and think, 'Oh my God.'" This depth could be pivotal in the Gophers' quest to improve upon last season's 19-15 overall record.
With a goal of winning double-digit conference games, Johnson believes the team is on the right track, building off last year’s nine conference victories. The Gophers have only recorded double-digit conference wins twice since the 1997-98 season, making this a pivotal year for the program.
The Gophers are set to kick off their season with exhibition games against Bemidji State University and Hamline University, leading into the regular season opener at home against Oral Roberts on November 6. Fans can look forward to watching the Gophers in 10 of their first 11 matchups at Williams Arena, with conference play starting on December 4 against Michigan State.
Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this exciting season ahead for the Gophers basketball team!
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