While the Gophers and their new coaching staff have been making notable progress in revamping the programs recruiting efforts, things can't be turned around right away.
Proof of that, Wednesday, is four-star recruit Ja'Quan Newton's commitment to Miami. Newton, ranked No. 41 in the nation by Rivals.com, confirmed his decision to me in a text message.
The Minnesota staff felt they had a solid chance with the 6-3 Newton, whose decision came abruptly after the Philadelphia point guard narrowed his list to five a week ago. Newton hadn't taken any visits yet -- including to Miami -- but had recently set up an official at Minnesota, among others.
Other 2014 point guards the Gophers are recruiting include Lourawls Nairn, Josh Perkins, Kaleb Joseph, Alex Robinson, Quentin Snider and Tyus Jones. There has been talk of Newton and five-star recruit Isaiah Whitehead selecting a college together, but Whitehead seems much further away from his decision.
