Gophers Tip-Off ACC/Big 10 Challenge
The Gophers could use super-sub Devoe Joseph against the Cavs.
The No. 17 Minnesota Golden Gophers will host the Virginia Cavaliers
at “The Barn” tonight in the first game of the 12th annual ACC/Big Ten Challenge.
After breaking into the top-25 rankings this week, Minnesota may play without two starters as Al Nolen (9.2 pts/4.2 assts) and Rodney Williams (6.7 pts) have leg injuries. Nolen is definitely out while Williams will be a game time decision. Freshmen Maverick Ahanmisi and Austin Collins will start in their place.
If Minnesota is to remain unbeaten (6-0) The Gophers will look for solid performances from their three key players- Blake Hoffarber, Trevor Mbakwe and Ralph Sampson. Thus far the Gophers have received major contributions from their deep bench and they will need more of the same against Virginia.
This would be the perfect time for Coach Tuby Smith to let super-sub Devoe Joseph out of the doghouse. Joseph has been on suspension thru all six games for violating team rules.
The Cavaliers main weapon is forward Mike Scott, (16.5 pts/9.3 rebs) who should find it challenging in the paint against the Gophers frontcourt forest of height, depth and a solid interior defense they have shown thus far.
Virginia comes in with a record of 3-3, but their last two games were disappointing double-digit losses to Washington by 43 and Wichita State by 12.
The game can be seen on ESPN2 at 6p.m. CST.
