After a series of rebuilding years, Coach Niko Medved has embraced the new era of college hoops with a transfer-heavy strategy. The result? A reloaded Minnesota team that suddenly looks like one of the Big Ten’s deepest rotations.

Returning Core: A Foundation to Build From

• Isaac Asuma (5.6 PPG) – An athletic guard with improved decision-making and leadership.

• Grayson Grove – A redshirt forward with range and length. He’ll likely play meaningful minutes in Year 1.

Transfer Class: Nine Deep and Versatile Additions

Backcourt Scorers:

• Chansey Willis Jr. (16.8 PPG – Western Michigan) – Dynamic scorer with a killer first step.

• Langston Reynolds (16.0 PPG – Northern Colorado) – Crafty combo guard who can create and score.

• Chance Stephens (Maryland) – Spot-up shooter who provides depth.

• Cade Tyson (UNC) – A 6'7" perimeter threat with untapped potential.

Wings & Forwards:

• Bobby Durkin (13.5 PPG – Davidson) – Knockdown shooter with size.

• BJ Omot (10.8 PPG – Cal) – Athletic two-way wing with high ceiling.

• Jaylen Crocker-Johnson (9.0 PPG – Colorado State) – Versatile 4-man who crashes the glass.

Big Men:

• Nehemiah Turner (8.5 PPG – Central Arkansas) – Mobile and productive center.

• Robert Vaihola (7.5 PPG – San Jose State) – Strong rebounder and interior defender.

Freshman Addition:

• Kai Shinholster (3⭐️ G) – Confident guard who will benefit from learning behind experienced transfers.

Final Take: Minnesota Is Built to Compete Right Now

This roster has scoring, physicality, and a surprising amount of experience. While chemistry and defense will take time, Ben Johnson has constructed a team that shouldn't be taken lightly in the new-look Big Ten.

Watch for Minnesota to be a dark-horse tournament team if the pieces click early.