If no more players were added to the Gophers' 2018 recruiting class, Richard Pitino would likely still have his best class ever, especially after landing three top in-state prospects.

But Pitino isn't finished yet.

Getting a commitment from locals Daniel Oturu, Jarvis Thomas and Gabe Kalscheur brought instant excitement to University of Minnesota fans. What comes next in the U's recruiting could add to the momentum building this offseason for the program.

The possibility of five-star Apple Valley point guard Tre Jones joining his Howard Pulley AAU teammates with the Gophers seems unlikely. Duke has prestige and a family connection with Jones' brother, Tyus, but Tre hasn't made a final list yet.

Even if they don't get Jones, the Gophers are heavily targeting several backcourt options, most notably Tindley School (Ind.) four-star senior Eric Hunter Jr. and Tilton School (Mass.) three-star senior Marcus Zegarowski.

MARCUS FULLER