University of Minnesota Athletics
Men's Basketball Crushes Team Nike, 115-71
11/17/2002 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
The University of Minnesota men's basketball team defeated Team Nike, 115-71, today at Williams Arena in front of 10,917 fans. Minnesota's five starters all scored in double figures, but reserve Michael Bauer led the team with 19 points.
In the first half, Minnesota jumped out to an 11-0 lead, but Team Nike was able to keep the game close. Team Nike came within five points at the 8:00 mark, but watched as the Gophers closed out the half with a 22-12 run, bringing the score to 50-35.
The Maroon and Gold emerged fired up after the half-time break, outscoring Team Nike, 65-36, in the second half. Ben Johnson and Jerry Holman combined for 20 second-half points, each finishing the game with 14 points. The Maroon and Gold also outshined Team Nike in rebounds, grabbing 30 to Nike's 11.
Overall, the Golden Gophers shot 55.7 percent from the field while Team Nike drudged behind at 39.7. Minnesota was also 7-of-17 from behind the arc, a 41 percent mark.
Minnesota opens the season on Sunday, November 24, at 1 p.m. against UNC Asheville at Williams Arena.
