Gophers-Northwestern game recap
MVP
Michael Thompson, Northwestern
The player they call "Juice" took more shots (22) than the Gophers made (21). His assist on a three-pointer and floater in transition anchored the Wildcats' 8-0 run midway through the second half, which snatched the momentum from the Gophers. His 35 points were a conference tournament record, and his leadership was just as important.
BY THE NUMBERS
6 Minnesota's rebounding margin (41-35) in the game. But that stat is deceptive. The Gophers were outscored in the paint (24-18) mostly because Northwestern capitalized on its second-chance opportunities.
16 Northwestern's largest lead in the game. The Wildcats held a 66-50 edge with 4:19 to go.
MYRON P. MEDCALF
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Analysis: Can the next Gophers men’s basketball coach sell himself to Minnesotans like Fleck?

As Colorado State’s Niko Medved emerges as the favorite, it’s clear in-state salesmanship will be key for athletic director Mark Coyle’s hire.