:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/63244558/usa_today_12250936.0.jpg)
The Gophers locked up an NCAA Tournament berth with a strong finish against Penn State in their opening Big Ten Tournament game on Thursday, moving into the quarterfinals and putting themselves in position to play for a better postseason seed.
Despite a poor overall record, the Nittany Lions were one of the hottest teams in the conference, and provided an additional Q1 victory for Minnesota’s tournament resume. Amir Coffey exploded at the end of the game with 12 points in overtime and an emphatic dunk that reminded fans of his potential, despite an underwhelming performance for much of regulation.
The fun continues on Friday with Purdue, where the Boilers are certainly looking for revenge after the Gophers pulled a fast one on them at Williams Arena just three games ago.
Essentials:
Who are the Gophers playing?
Purdue Boilermakers (23-8, 16-4)
What time are they playing?
Friday, March 15 @ 6 p.m. CT
Where are they playing?
United Center (Chicago, Ill.)
Can I watch the game on TV?
Yes, BTN
Can I listen to the game on the radio?
Yes, KFAN 100.3-FM
Tell me more about the opponent.
I talked to my Purdue fan source about the game tonight. He said that if Carsen Edwards doesn’t shoot more than 30 times he thinks they’ll win. Also he hopes that Trevion Williams plays more than Matt Haarms.
But for real, we only played Purdue a few games ago and very little has changed. Edwards is still an amazing scorer, Haarms is still a pouty, gangly mess, and Ryan Cline is annoying effective from long range. Perhaps the only additional player to mention is Nojel Eastern, who has come alive down the stretch to register three double-digit scoring efforts in the final four games, including a double-double against the Gophers in the most recent matchup.
Predictions
The Gophers are now 5-0 this season on a neutral court. Are you convinced yet? But seriously, Minnesota has played Purdue tight in both games this season, so it’s a true rubber match. The Boilers are favored by 10 points, but I’m feeling confident after the Gophers pulled a rabbit out of their hat last night that they’ll at least keep it close. I’d take the money line.