For the first time under coach Tubby Smith, the Gophers won an NCAA Tournament game. It was the team’s first official tournament win since 1990 (the team went to the Final Four in 1997, but that season was vacated due to NCAA violations).
On Friday night, 11-seed Minnesota destroyed the listless UCLA Bruins, 83-63. Despite being a lower seed, the Gophers had been favored by 3 to win by oddsmakers.
Andre Hollins led the Gophers’ charge with 28 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Austin Hollins added 16 points, 8 assists and 4 steals. Together, the Hollins’ combined to hit 9-of-14 three-pointers.
Trevor Mbakwe stayed out of foul trouble and finished with 9 points and 12 rebounds. Joe Coleman had a great game off the bench. The sophomore from Hopkins scored 14 points on 7-of-10 shooting.
The win eased some pressure on Smith, at least for now, the Pioneer Press’ Tom Powers writes.
Minnesota plays in the round of 32 on Sunday against No. 3 seed Florida. A win would put them in the Sweet 16.
