Gophers Athletics Director Mark Coyle spent part of his Friday meeting with players from the men’s basketball team.
His top priority is finding a new head coach, but managing the roster is also a key task. While the NCAA transfer portal doesn’t fully open until March 24, the coaching change at Minnesota allows players to transfer immediately. One player has already decided to explore other options.
“We are staying in touch with our student-athletes and keeping them informed,” Coyle said Friday from Indianapolis, where he is serving on the NCAA men’s basketball tournament selection committee. “I’ve spoken with two players so far and have a call scheduled with another. Our goal is to maintain constant communication.”
The Gophers had 10 seniors last season, though some players have the option to return. Among the most promising players on the current roster are freshman guard Isaac Asuma, junior forward Frank Mitchell, and senior guard Brennan Rigsby. Meanwhile, senior guard Tyler Cochran, a Toledo transfer who missed last season due to a foot injury, reportedly plans to enter the transfer portal.
To help manage the transition, the university has retained assistant coach Dave Thorson and director of operations Ryan Livingston, who also played a similar role during the previous coaching change from Richard Pitino to Ben Johnson.
The Hiring Process
Minnesota has not yet hired a search firm to assist in finding a new coach, though Coyle indicated that could still be an option. As with past coaching hires, an internal committee from the athletic department and university system will be involved in the process.
Following the announcement of the coaching change, Coyle said he received calls from coaches interested in the position.
“They see the value of the Big Ten and Minnesota,” Coyle said. “Our media contracts provide tremendous exposure.”
One potential candidate is Ryan Saunders, a former Gophers player and ex-Timberwolves head coach who is currently an assistant with the Denver Nuggets, according to the Pioneer Press.
Booster Influence
When asked about the role of boosters in the decision to part ways with Johnson after four seasons, Coyle said he spoke with both major and minor donors.
“People supported Ben, but there was a recognition that we needed more consistency,” he said. “I didn’t get a flood of messages demanding change, but some donors did express concerns about the program’s direction.”
Frustration with Recent Struggles
Known for his reserved demeanor, Coyle showed a rare moment of emotion on Friday, expressing frustration over the program’s lack of success.
“It’s been frustrating, to be honest,” he said. “I’ve worked at Kentucky and Syracuse, and at Boise State, we made multiple NCAA tournaments. That experience is addicting, and we want to get back to that level. That’s why this hire is so important for our department.”