Minnesota v. Northern Illinois: Time to build chemistry

In Tubby Smith's first two seasons with Minnesota, the Gophers struggled with chemistry in large part because there were so many rotations.

December 16, 2009 at 12:35AM

The Gophers face Northern Illinois tonight at Williams Arena.

Should be an easy win for Minnesota.

But with just two games left in its nonconference season, Minnesota needs to continue to build chemistry.

It looks like Smith will stick with the three-guard lineup. I think it helps the Gophers because they have a better idea of whom they'll play next to. I like the way that the second unit is playing right now. And I think part of their success can be attributed to familiarity.

The Gophers need to be comfortable with themselves and their teammates entering Big Ten play. Another win, using similar rotations will certainly help the Gophers achieve that desired level of comfort in time for the Dec. 29 Big Ten opener.

Prediction: Minnesota 95, Northern Illinois 70

about the writer

about the writer

Myron Medcalf

Columnist

Myron Medcalf is a local columnist for the Minnesota Star Tribune and recipient of the 2022 Society of Professional Journalists Sigma Delta Chi Award for general column writing.

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