Ranked U focuses on now

Last update: December 23, 2008 - 8:06 AM

For the first time since December 2002, the Gophers are ranked in a major college basketball poll.

Voters in both the most recent ESPN/Coaches and Associated Press polls put the Gophers at No. 23 Monday, after their upset of No. 19 Louisville, a team that was ranked No. 9 before Saturday's game.

Coach Tubby Smith said he doesn't focus on rankings but said the team might receive additional exposure because of it.

Entering the week, the Gophers were one of 10 undefeated teams around the country, after achieving Minnesota's first 10-0 start since 1976-77.

"We still are undefeated, and we're still one of the few teams that are still undefeated in Division I," he said after practice Monday. "A lot of people saw the game on TV Saturday, and I'm sure they were impressed with some of the things that we did, but we know it's all about now. And we have to concentrate on the here and now."

The last time the Gophers were ranked in the top 25, they lost to No. 5 Oregon by nine points on Dec. 22, 2002. Almost exactly six years since their last ranking, Smith said he wants the Gophers to realize they can lose the accolade just as quickly as they earned it.

"They know that's some of the rewards you get for paying the price," he said. "But we know that the bigger the challenge, the greater the reward. But also the same way, if you don't live up to our expectations as this team, which is to get better every day, then it'll be a short-lived ranking or experience."

More traffic for fans

Gophers fans might encounter traffic congestion in the next three weeks: Minnesota officials announced Monday that two lanes of University Avenue west of Oak Street, adjacent to Williams Arena and the Sports Pavilion, are expected be closed through Jan. 16 because of water main work. School officials said traffic will be "severely restricted" and fans should allow extra travel time. One lane of University Avenue eastbound will remain open, and motorists will be able to make left turns onto Oak Street. The University Avenue parking ramp will remain open.

MYRON P. MEDCALF

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