Gophers open the season with 85-50 win over North Dakota

Minnesota Gophers kicked off the season with a commanding 85-50 victory over North Dakota Fighting Hawks at Williams Arena. After a sluggish start, trailing by 1-3 early, the Gophers executed a strong 14-2 run, never relinquishing their lead thereafter. Quarterback Bobby Durkin shone, scoring 16 points and making all five of his three-point attempts.

This win holds significance as it showcased the team's cohesion between returning and new players, their offensive chemistry with excellent ball movement and high assist percentage, and exceptional defensive teamwork that could impress their coach, PJ Fleck. The Gophers' defense, swarming and stifling, was a standout feature, holding North Dakota to a poor 28.8% shooting and 3/28 from three.

Last season, Minnesota led the nation in assist percentage, and they continued this trend, compiling 28 assists on 34 made field goals. Four Gophers recorded at least four assists, a promising sign for a robust and talented team. Malick Kordel's consecutive dunking spree in the second half sealed the deal, pushing the lead to 28 with 15:47 remaining.

While the Gophers' rebounding stats may not be flashy, their ability to secure offensive rebounds stood out, keeping North Dakota's scoring opportunities at bay. Bobby Durkin's early three-point barrage helped Minnesota gain momentum. North Dakota's defensive strategy of switching to a zone briefly slowed the Gophers, but the Gophers' defense ultimately prevailed.

Coach Sather reverted to man-to-man defense, a regrettable move. The Gophers settled on a nine-man rotation, featuring Malick Kordel, Kai Shinholser, and Nolan Groves as starters, with alternations and spot-minutes for others like Nolan Anderson and Cedric Tomes. As Minnesota faces St. Thomas next, the team exhibits a promising style of play that could signal a good season ahead.