Gophers coach Tubby Smith recently learned that he had the early stages of prostate cancer. Through a university statement, the coach said an April 21 procedure at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., removed the cancer. He also said that he's looking forward to next season.

"Amid speculation I want to make it aware that I did in fact undergo a procedure on April 21 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester," he said in the statement. "During my regular physical last spring it was discovered that my prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were high. A biopsy was done and it was discovered that I had early stages of prostate cancer. I am happy to say that the cancer was contained and removed and I am now cancer free and feeling great."

Smith added: "I want to thank Dr. Gettman and Dr. Litin at the Mayo clinic for everything they have done for me. I am a proponent of regular prostate examines and hope that men, especially African-American men, continue to have regular checkups. Again, I am feeling great and can't wait for the upcoming season."