Gophers Top Cornhuskers
March 2, 2017

The recently reliable duo of Jordan Murphy and Nate Mason combined to lead Minnesota past Nebraska, 88-73, at Williams Arena on March 2.

The rugged Murphy scored 20 points and pulled down 11 rebounds while Mason was scoring 25 points. Minnesota shot 56 percent from the field for the game. The contest was close in the first half until a pair of Mason free throws put the Gophers up by 30-25 with 3:45 remaining. The lead increased to 40-27 at halftime.

Without an inside presence, Nebraska could do little in the paint against Murphy and Reggie Lynch. Minnesota raced to a 53-33 lead on a Mason three-point basket, and the Cornhuskers were cooked. Futile attempts were made to catch up. Minnesota’s record stands at 23-7 (11-6 in the conference).

“We weren’t able to get stops,” said Husker coach Tim Miles after the game. “They got inside on us. Minnesota’s a tough minded team. They didn’t allow us a chance to get in rhythm.”

Minnesota coach Richard Pitino lauded Murphy’s effort. “Jordan was terrific. He’s playing at a high level while keeping his poise.”

He praised Mason. “Nate’s crafty with the ball and crafty at the rim.”