gophers gameday

6:30 p.m. vs. Louisville • Aguadilla, Puerto Rico • ESPN, 1500-AM

Gophers at a glance: It's been a while since the Gophers have played such a marquee game to open the season. Minnesota last opened against a national top-15 team in 1994, when the Gophers beat fifth-ranked Arizona. This year, they've had just a couple tuneups before the main event, reportedly getting crushed 103-78 in a private scrimmage at Iowa State before dismantling Minnesota Duluth in an exhibition at Williams Arena. Juco transfer Carlos Morris — who reportedly had 22 points against the Cyclones — led the team once again in the exhibition, scoring 23. Senior center Mo Walker, who missed the exhibition due to a hamstring strain, will play, coach Richard Pitino said. Freshman Nate Mason (knee) remains hopeful after practicing before the team left for Puerto Rico.

Louisville at a glance: The Cardinals could be in a different place if Montrezl Harrell had decided to leave for the NBA draft. As it is, Louisville is ranked eighth nationally despite an infusion of youth and the losses of Russ Smith and Luke Hancock. The starting five features preseason All-America Harrell as the beast in the frontcourt; much improved point guard Chris Jones and the feisty Terry Rozier in the backcourt; and Wayne Blackshear, a veteran, on the wing. In the two exhibitions that Louisville cruised through, Blackshear totaled 38 points and eight rebounds, while Harrell scored 35 and added 14 boards. Freshman Shaqquan Aaron is still awaiting clearance by the NCAA. Coach Rick Pitino hopes the guard will have clarity by game day.

AMELIA RAYNO