Richard Pitino losing two Gophers basketball assistants in the last week might appear concerning to some fans, but members of his 2018 recruiting class aren't in panic mode about the situation.

Kimani Young and Ben Johnson, the two longest-tenured assistants for Pitino, left to join staffs at UConn and Xavier, respectively. Johnson was Minnesota's top local recruiter.

Gopher recruits Daniel Oturu, Gabe Kalscheur and Jarvis Omersa said after hearing of Johnson's departure Tuesday that they were happy for him.

"I'm excited for him on his new journey," said Kalscheur, who attends Johnson's alma mater, DeLaSalle. "He will do great things. He will be missed but will always be family to me."

Oturu, who is sitting out of Nike Hoop Summit practices in Portland with a shoulder injury, said he wishes Johnson nothing but the best.

MARCUS FULLER