Big Ten Schedule Unveiled
The University of Minnesota announced its full slate of opponents for the 2026‑27 Big Ten men’s basketball season, confirming home and away matchups that will shape the Gophers’ campaign.
Minnesota will host Michigan, Northwestern and Wisconsin twice each, while Illinois, Indiana, Oregon, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue and Washington are slated to visit Williams Arena, the team’s historic home court.
On the road, the Gophers travel to face Iowa, Maryland, Michigan State, Nebraska, Rutgers, UCLA and USC, rounding out a demanding conference schedule that tests depth and resilience.
Returning Core and New Additions
Coach Niko Medved’s second year brings a mix of experience and fresh talent. Key returning players include Isaac Asuma, Jaylen Crocker‑Johnson, Bobby Durkin and Grayson Grove, who together provide a foundation of skill and leadership.
Kai Shinholster, who logged about 13 minutes per game last season, is also back, adding veteran presence off the bench.
The roster will welcome five transfers from the NCAA portal — Kyan Evans, Nolan Groves, Winters Grady, Malick Kordel and Malachi Palmer — who are expected to contribute immediately.
In addition, three freshmen — Nolen Anderson, Cedric Tomes and Chadrick Mpoyi — will join the program, bringing youthful energy to the mix.
Medved’s first season ended with a 15‑18 overall record and an 8‑12 mark in Big Ten play, a stepping stone that the coaching staff believes will translate into greater competitiveness this year.
The upcoming schedule offers ample opportunities for the Gophers to showcase their growth, with home games at Williams Arena expected to be especially vibrant as fans rally behind the team.
Overall, the 2026‑27 season promises a blend of seasoned contributors and promising newcomers, all under the guidance of Coach Niko Medved as the program looks to build on recent progress.