CLOSING TIME

For the second time in the Big Ten season, the Gophers pulled away from a ranked opponent. Details of the two:

DEC. 31 VS. NO. 18 MICH. STATE

Situation: MSU leads 59-54 with 9:24 left.

Response: The Gophers finish the game with a 22-4 run that featured a pair of Austin Hollins dunks and eight points from Andre Hollins for a 76-63 victory.

WEDNESDAY AT NO. 12 ILLINOIS

Situation: Illinois trails 44-42 with 12:40 left.

Response: Joe Coleman scores 20 of his 29 points as the Gophers close with a 40-25 run for an 84-67 victory.