The Minnesota Gophers men's basketball team isn't done just yet. They're gearing up for a showdown against Baylor on Thursday in the opening round of the second annual College Basketball Crown Tournament. But before they hit the court, some significant offseason developments have emerged, shaking up the coaching staff and solidifying the roster for next season.
First up, assistant coach Chad Warner is making a move to Clemson after just one season with the Gophers. Warner, who previously honed his skills at Furman and Flagler College, is set to reunite with familiar faces in the coaching world. His departure marks a notable change for head coach Niko Medved, who shares a rich history with Furman, having served there in various coaching roles.
Meanwhile, the Gophers are retaining some key players for the 2026-27 season. Stretch-forward Jaylen Crocker-Johnson has announced his return for his senior year.
After transferring from Colorado State, where he played under Medved, Crocker-Johnson made a significant impact this season. He elevated his game, averaging 13.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, showcasing his growth and importance to the team's future.
Adding to the good news, redshirt freshman Grayson Grove is also sticking around. The Alexandria native, one of the few remnants from the Ben Johnson era, played a crucial role this past season.
Despite initial expectations of limited playtime, Grove stepped up, especially during the final stretch, where he averaged over 37 minutes per game. His contributions in points, rebounds, and assists highlight his potential as a cornerstone for the Gophers moving forward.
As the Gophers prepare for their upcoming tournament clash, these developments set the stage for an intriguing future under Medved's leadership. With key players committed and a coaching shake-up underway, Minnesota is looking to build on its momentum and make a strong impression in the seasons to come.