Minnesota Golden Gophers hold on for win over Missouri State

The Minnesota Golden Gophers really wanted to lose their Puerto Rico matchup against Missouri State, but they managed to keep what was once an 18-point lead into a 74-69 victory. The win advances Minnesota to Sunday’s fifth place game.

It truly looked like the Golden Gophers were going to run away with the game from the opening tip. Joey King had an incredible first eight minutes of the game scoring 15 points by going 5-for-5 from three-point land. King scored three more points total for the remainder of the game. King only attempted eight shots the whole game despite being red hot in the opening minutes.

Carlos Morris helped matters with a huge three-pointer late and a total of 12 points. King and Morris were the only two Gophers to break double-digits.

The Bears had someone that what was almost as hot from three. Austin Ruder scored 12 points in the second round game off of four three-pointers. He assisted Missouri State getting within three points of the Gophers in the second half despite Minnesota holding a 13-point lead at the half.

More from Sporting Sota

One of the main issues for the Gophers on Friday morning was foul trouble. King fouled out in the closing moments of the five-point victory and Bakary Konate and Jordan Murphy both had four fouls.

The victory puts the Golden Gophers at 3-1 record so far this season. The Gophers have an off-day in Puerto Rico on Saturday before they play in the fifth place game on Sunday. The best part of the fifth place game? It’s against Texas Tech. Yes, Tubby Smith and Texas Tech. Tip is set for 1:30 central and can be seen on ESPNU.

Next: Previewing Vikings and Packers!

Sporting Sota is your home for the Minnesota Gophers and more of your favorite Minnesota squads!

Home/Minnesota Golden Gophers