Husker Extra's Brian Rosenthal takes a quick look at the Big Ten leading into the start of the season. Today, a peek at Minnesota.
MINNESOTA
Coach: Richard Pitino (third season, 43-28)
Last year: 18-15 (6-12, T-10th)
Postseason: none
Top returner: Point guard Nate Mason had a strong close to his sophomore season, when he averaged 9.8 points with a 2.6-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio. Pitino calls Mason one of the hardest workers in the gym, a prototypical gym rat.
Newcomer to watch: Guard Kevin Dorsey is among six newcomers, and he’s the highest regarded of the freshmen.