The Minnesota Golden Gophers, under new head coach Niko Medved, have rebuilt their roster for the 2025-26 season with a strong transfer-heavy class and one key high school signee. With only Isaac Asuma and Grayson Grove returning, Medved’s recruiting focused on immediate-impact players. Among the commitments, Bobby Durkin, a 6’7″ forward from Davidson, stands out as the Gophers’ best addition.
Durkin, with two years of eligibility, averaged 13.5 points per game and shot 36% from three at Davidson, showcasing his scoring and shooting prowess. His versatility to rebound, facilitate, and stretch the floor makes him a perfect fit for Medved’s system. Analysts project him as a near-certain starter, capable of handling the Big Ten’s physicality while adding offensive firepower. His well-rounded game gives him an edge over other transfers like Jaylen Crocker-Johnson, a 6’8″ forward from Colorado State, who averaged 9.0 points and 4.4 rebounds, and Chansey Willis Jr., a point guard from Western Michigan with 16.8 points and 5.8 assists per game.
Crocker-Johnson, a close second, brings versatility and shooting (35.4% from three), making him a likely starter and mentor for younger players like Grove. Willis, with one year left, offers playmaking but lacks Durkin’s size and multi-faceted impact.
Other transfers, like Langston Reynolds (16.0 points at Northern Colorado) and B.J. Omot (local product from California/North Dakota), are notable, but Durkin’s proven production and fit give him the nod. Kai Shinholster, the lone 2025 high school signee, is a 6’5″ combo guard with long-term potential but likely a redshirt candidate.
Nehemiah Turner, a 6’10” freshman center, and Robert Vaihola, a 6’8″ forward, add depth but face steeper transitions. With four open scholarship spots, more additions could emerge, but Durkin’s immediate impact is unmatched. His ability to score, shoot, and defend positions him as the cornerstone of Minnesota’s revamped roster, setting the stage for a competitive season.
Leave a Reply