Golden Gophers Land Sharpshooter Bobby Durkin from davidson
Minnesota Gophers Men’s Basketball adds key player for the upcoming season.
The University of Minnesota Golden Gophers men’s basketball program, under the leadership of Head Coach Niko Medved, has officially welcomed Bobby Durkin (Darien, Ill.) to their ranks. Durkin,transferring from Davidson College,is expected to bring a significant boost to the team’s offensive firepower.
Bobby is a phenomenal shooter with great size and length. He’s a versatile player who can create space and has good floor vision. In addition,his defensive play and rebounding ability really stands out. We’re excited to have Bobby as a Golden Gopher.Niko medved, Head Coach, Minnesota Golden Gophers
Coach medved’s enthusiasm highlights the multifaceted skillset Durkin brings to the Gophers. The addition aims to address key areas of need for the team as they prepare for a competitive season in the Big Ten Conference.
Durkin’s Remarkable Collegiate Career
standing at 6-foot-7, Durkin is a versatile guard/wing player who made a name for himself as Davidson’s premier three-point threat over the past two seasons. His sophomore year was particularly impressive, showcasing his ability to score and contribute in multiple facets of the game.
As a sophomore, Durkin averaged 13.5 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. He also contributed 2.4 assists and 1.3 steals, demonstrating his well-rounded game. He started in 32 of 33 games, proving to be a consistent and reliable presence on the court.
From beyond the arc, Durkin was a force to be reckoned with, sinking 91 three-pointers out of 256 attempts. This mark not only lead the Davidson Wildcats but also placed him fourth among all athletes in the Atlantic 10 Conference. His 2.8 three-pointers made per game ranked fifth in the league, underscoring his importance as a long-range threat.
Durkin’s overall shooting efficiency was also notable, as he connected on 40.6% of his field-goal attempts and a stellar 85.0% of his free-throw attempts. Averaging 33.7 minutes per game, he was a key player in Davidson’s rotation.
He recorded 23 double-digit scoring games, including six performances where he surpassed the 20-point mark. Additionally, he had four games with double-figure rebounds, showcasing his ability to impact the game on the boards.
During his freshman year (2023-24), durkin started in 17 of 32 games, averaging 8.5 points. He shot 37.3% from the field. As a rookie, Durkin scored a team-best 59 three-pointers and had 15 double-digit scoring performances when he averaged 28.1 minutes.
Analyzing the Impact on the Golden gophers
Durkin’s arrival comes at a crucial time for the Golden Gophers, who are looking to improve their standing in the competitive Big Ten Conference. His shooting prowess will undoubtedly open up the floor for other players and provide a reliable scoring option in crucial moments.
here’s a look at how durkin’s stats could translate to the Big Ten:
| Statistic | Durkin (Davidson) | Potential Impact on Gophers |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Point Shooting | 2.8 3PM/game, 35.5% | Spacing the floor, opening driving lanes |
| Rebounding | 5.9 RPG | Contributing to team rebounding effort |
| Versatility | Guard/Wing | Adaptability in lineups, multiple positions |
Beyond his shooting, Durkin’s rebounding ability and defensive awareness will be valuable assets. Coach Medved’s emphasis on these aspects of Durkin’s game suggests that he will be expected to contribute on both ends of the floor.
Looking Ahead: The Golden Gophers’ Roster Additions
Bobby Durkin is one of several key additions to the golden Gophers’ roster for the upcoming season. The team is also welcoming BJ Omot (Mankato, Minn.) and Jaylen Crocker-Johnson (San Antonio, Texas). These new players, combined with the existing talent, create a sense of optimism and anticipation for the future of the program.
Here’s a quick look at the Gophers’ new spring signees:
- BJ Omot (Mankato, Minn.)
- Jaylen Crocker-Johnson (San Antonio, Texas)
- Bobby Durkin (Darien, Ill.)
These additions reflect Coach Medved’s commitment to building a competitive and well-rounded team. As the Golden Gophers prepare for the challenges of the big Ten conference, the arrival of players like Bobby Durkin offers a renewed sense of hope and excitement for fans and the program alike.
