Niko Medved has revamped the Gophers’ roster in his first offseason as head coach, bringing in seven transfer portal players. Here’s a paraphrased ranking of the incoming transfers:
1. Bobby Durkin, G/F, Davidson
Durkin, a 6-foot-7 wing, is poised for success with the Gophers. Last season, he posted 13.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, shooting 40.6% from the field, 35.5% from three (on 7.8 attempts), and 85.0% from the free-throw line. His efficiency and steady improvement make him a seamless fit for the Big Ten.
2. Chansey Willis Jr., G, Western Michigan
Willis is a prime candidate to lead Minnesota in scoring. He averaged 16.8 points per game last season, surging to 18.6 in February, with eight 20-point games, including a 34-point outburst against Ohio. As the team’s top scoring threat, his synergy with Isaac Asuma will be fascinating to watch.
3. Jaylen Crocker-Johnson, F, Colorado State
While his stats aren’t eye-popping, Crocker-Johnson is a reliable role player. He hit double figures 16 times last season, with two 20-point games. Reminiscent of Jared Vanderbilt, he’s efficient, rebounds well, and defends solidly, making him a valuable roster piece.
4. B.J. Omot, G/F, California
Omot is a wildcard after playing just four games last season at Cal due to injury. In his last full season at North Dakota, he averaged 16.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. If he regains that form, he could thrive as a sixth man or even push for a starting spot.
5. Robert Vaihola, C, San Jose State
Vaihola, a 6-foot-8 center, could emerge as the answer at the five. His size raises questions about handling the Big Ten’s physicality, but his Mountain West experience, including six double-digit rebounding games and a 19-rebound performance against Fresno State, suggests he can become a productive starter.
6. Langston Reynolds, G, Northern Colorado
Reynolds made a big leap last season, jumping from 6.2 to 16.0 points per game. He scored in double figures in all but five games, though his March performances dipped. His energy off the bench is a plus, but his 3.4 assists to 2.7 turnovers ratio raises concerns about his Big Ten transition.
7. Nehemiah Turner, C, Central Arkansas
Turner, a 6-foot-10 freshman, is a high-upside gamble. He averaged 18.5 points over his final 10 games last season, but the leap from the ASUN to the Big Ten is steep. With three years of eligibility left, his long-term potential is exciting, though his immediate impact is uncertain.
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