University of Minnesota Athletics
Hoops Blog: Gophers Take to the Court
8/23/2010 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
The University of Minnesota men's basketball program opened practice this morning at Williams Arena in preparation for its upcoming three-game trip to Vancouver, Canada. The squad is scheduled to hold nine practices this week before heading to Vancouver on Aug. 31. Prior to returning to the states, the Gophers will play against the University of British Columbia on Sept. 2, Trinity Western University on Sept. 3 and the University of Victoria on Sept. 5. The team will also have opportunities to take in the Vancouver sites and will hold a practice at the Olympic Oval, which was the home of the Olympic Speed skating last winter.
The citizens of Minnesota have seen the thermometer reach 90 degrees multiple times this summer. I am not sure that today will be one of those days but inside the friendly confines of "The Barn" this morning the temps had to have reached triple digits.
This morning's practice was all about defense, not a shock to anyone that follows the Gophers or any Tubby Smith led team. The coaches spent much of the practice introducing their basic defensive principles in the half court as well as in transition. I am told that tonight's practice will be more of an offensive practice.
The Gophers have a slew of new faces on the roster this season, many of which took part in practice this morning. On the court were Maverick Ahanmisi, Austin Hollins, Eric Stark and Mo Walker. Transfer Chris Halvorsen and newly signed Gerald "Chip" Armelin will not be making the trip with the team since neither took part in summer school.
Not officially a new face but forward Trevor Mbakwe was also on the court this morning sporting a huge smile.
