3 Gophers Who Could Effectively End UCLA's Season

Taking a deep look at three Minnesota players who could destroy UCLA's tournament odds

Dec 23, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Mick Cronin reacts on the sidelines in the first half against the UC Riverside Highlanders at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom Financial. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

With the Bruins still wavering on the edge of the tournament a loss to Minnesota could seriously tank their odds.

UCLA, as it stands now, is a 9th seed in the tournament. Still, if they finish this season 1-2 with losses from No. 12 Nebraska and either Minnesota or USC, their chances of reaching the tournament go down significantly. With that said, here are three Gophers who could set up UCLA for failure.

Cade Tyson | G

Feb 24, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers guard Cade Tyson (10) dribbles in the second half against the Michigan Wolverines at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Cade Tyson has been outstanding for Minnesota recently. This season, he is averaging 19.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. What stands out most is his efficiency — shooting 48.7% from the field and 41.5% from beyond the arc.

With such a versatile offensive skill set, the Bruins will have a difficult time slowing him down. Tyson stands at 6-foot-7, giving him an advantage in the paint. Tyler Bilodeau or Eric Dailey Jr. will likely be the last line of defense if Tyson attacks the rim.

Langston Reynolds | G

Feb 24, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers guard Langston Reynolds (6) dribbles against Michigan Wolverines guard Trey McKenney (1) in the second half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Langston Reynolds also brings an intriguing skill set. He is averaging 11.3 points, 4.4 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game this season. In Minnesota’s loss to Michigan, he scored 15 points on 50% shooting — an impressive showing against a strong opponent.

His most notable performance came in the game prior against Rutgers, where he recorded 19 points, nine assists and five rebounds. He shot 70% from the field and 50% from 3-point range in that game. UCLA cannot afford to let him find that kind of rhythm.

Bobby Durkin | F

Feb 24, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers forward Bobby Durkin (3) dribbles against Michigan Wolverines guard Elliot Cadeau (3) in the second half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Bobby Durkin could be an underrated factor in this matchup. Over his last four games, he has scored at least 11 points in each. On the season, he is averaging 9.8 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists while shooting 44.2% from the field. At home, his stats slightly increase, something UCLA needs to watch for.

Like Tyson, Durkin has the ability to be effective in the paint. If both players are able to establish themselves inside, UCLA could face serious problems. Containing Durkin’s impact will be critical — if the Bruins fail to do so, they could be in trouble.

Feb 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; UCLA Bruin head coach Mick Cronin communicates during the first half against the Southern California Trojans at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom Financial. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images | Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images

Looking at these three players, it is clear they are heating up at the right time. While Minnesota’s overall results may not fully reflect it, the roster has players capable of making a significant impact. With UCLA heading into a road environment, anything can happen.

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