A lot of things have changed around the Gophers basketball program. There is a blog written by the head coach, the average age on the bench has dropped more dramatically that an Austin Hollins alley oop, and Rick Pitino comes to town just to hang out in maroon and gold.

Now, add to that mix a fun web series on the team, the first episode of which was released today.

Take a peek for yourself:

Pretty good, if you can get past the SUPER up-close testimonials and the slow-mo coaching shots.

The Gophers Digital Production videos, which are dubbed "Raise the Barn" (the new Minnesota catchphrase, apparently) will follow around coach Richard Pitino and the players all year. Here's the schedule:

  • Episode 2: Dec. 30
  • E3: Jan. 14
  • E4: Jan. 28
  • E5: Feb. 11
  • E6: Feb. 25
  • E7: March 11
  • E8: March 25
  • E9: April 9

In other news, in case you missed it, Austin Hollins was named Big Ten Player of the Week on Monday. Hollins eclipsed 1,000 career points a week ago against South Dakota State in a game in which he went off for 20 points and a career-high 14 rebounds. It was the first time he'd been named to the weekly honor in his career. I'd say this year has gotten off to a pretty good start for the senior, who is now averaging 13.8 points and 7.8 rebounds a game.