Gopher basketball: Best shots from the game

facebooktwitterreddit

The Minnesota Golden Gophers defeated No. 1 Indiana on Tuesday evening 77-73 at Williams Arena sending The Barn into a frenzy as fans stormed the court in celebration of the program’s fourth upset over a top-ranked program — the first since February of 1989.

Gophers getting some front-page love from ESPN and SI, respectively.

A well-deserved court-storming. The act wasn’t limited to just students as they came charging from all directions.

Feb 26, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Gophers guard Joe Coleman (11) and forward Rodney Williams Jr. (33) and forward Trevor Mbakwe (32) and the team celebrate the win over the Indiana Hoosiers at Williams Arena. The Gophers defeated number one ranked Hoosiers 77-73. Mandatory Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports

This dude knows what’s up. Did you know zubaz were invented in Minnesota? Yep.

Feb 26, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Gophers fan Everett Scott celebrates the Gophers win over the Indiana Hoosiers at Williams Arena. Minnesota won 77-73. Mandatory Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports

Rodney Williams had a nice day, grabbing five rebounds and dishing four assists. He had two ultra-athletic blocks that made a big difference in the game — including the block with seconds remaining that prevented the Hoosiers from making it a one-possession contest.

Feb 26, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Gophers forward Rodney Williams Jr. (33) and Indiana Hoosiers guard Victor Oladipo (4) chase after a loose ball in the first half at Williams Arena. Mandatory Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports

The bench played well in the win, committing no turnovers while adding 16 points, 10 rebounds and four assists. Elliot Eliason led the bench with seven points — a season high for the back-up center.

Feb 26, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Led by Minnesota Gophers forward Trevor Mbakwe (32) the bench cheers during the game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Williams Arena. The Gophers defeated number one ranked Hoosiers 77-73. Mandatory Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports

Minnesota played solid defense against a fast-paced Indiana squad. Christian Watford was limited to eight points — six of them came in the final seconds.

Feb 26, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Indiana Hoosiers forward Christian Watford (2) drives to the basket while defended by Minnesota Gophers forward Trevor Mbakwe (32) in the first half at Williams Arena. Mandatory Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports