The Opening Tip is a new feature to Gold in the Barn, with the goal being to share five nuggets -- mostly Gophers or Big Ten related but occasionally not -- every morning between 8 and 10. Dig it? Hate it? Want to see something specific in it? Send me feedback at amelia.rayno@startribune.com or tweet me @AmeliaRayno.

Five tidbits as prepare for my big Krav Maga comeback tonight, post-ankle sprain.

1. Who do you think coach Richard Pitino said has the biggest potential of anyone on the team? Why, Charles Buggs of course. My story in today's Star Tribune here. Plus, more thoughts on Buggs on the blog.

2. It's Buggy Fever. Listen to his own words here via some audio from the University of Minnesota.

3. Video: Gopher basketball takes you into the locker room for Richard Pitino's postgame speech. Pretty touching ode to Austin Hollins, then asks "Will the real Charles Buggs please stand up?"

4. MORE VIDEO: Michael Rand and I discuss the man of the hour -- Buggs of course -- and the Gophers chances for slipping into the tournament.

5. Recruiting update: Gophers 2014 target Kobe Eubanks finished with 21 points, six rebounds and four steals for Our Savior New American vs. Mountain View (via @D1Circuit).


Bonus:

*No Gophers players involved, but you can vote for the most-improved Big Ten player here.