They have both endured humbling dry spells. For the Timberwolves, it has been eight consecutive seasons -- since that run to the conference finals -- without a playoff appearance.
For the Gophers men's basketball team, it has been 15 consecutive seasons -- since that magical 1996-97 season -- without an NCAA tournament victory. If sanctions are in play, it goes back even more.
Also -- thankfully, if you are a basketball fan in the Twin Cities -- both teams should be as optimistic this season as they have been in quite some time.
The Timberwolves have question marks. But they are deep, versatile and should realistically be expected to make the playoffs.
The Gophers have question marks. But they are deep, versatile and should realistically be expected to win an NCAA tournament game.
The question, then, is this: While you should have faith in both teams, if you had to pick just one, which way would you go?
Both are playing against tough competition -- the Big Ten has three teams ranked in the national top five, while the Western Conference is by far the more dominant side in the NBA.
You already have an edge in seeing the Wolves go 3-1 to start this year, albeit against shaky competition. The Gophers open their season tonight.
