Gophers Basketball Weekly w/ Ben Johnson 1-22-25

·51 min·5 clips

Robert Varnadoe reveals that over 80% of adults with developmental differences lack paid jobs and urges action.

The episode begins with a pre-recorded ad from Robert Varnadoe of Lee Container promoting inclusive employment for people with developmental differences. Hosts Mike Grimm and Justin Gard then interview University of Minnesota men's basketball head coach Ben Johnson. Johnson recounts the team's five-hour bus ride home after beating Iowa, noting how players slept but erupted when Frank Mitchell was interviewed. He emphasizes that such moments build team cohesion and are the addictive part of sports. Johnson reflects on the significance of winning at Iowa for the first time in ten years, describing the locker room celebration. He discusses the team's growth through a two-game winning streak, attributing success to improved physicality and defense. Johnson explains the strategic decision to defend the three-point line against Iowa, which held them to 67 points, their lowest of the season. He praises Frank Mitchell's contributions, including a game-changing block and offensive rebounds. The conversation shifts to Femi Odekali's role as point guard, with Johnson noting his unorthodox but effective playmaking. Johnson recalls Dawson Garcia's buzzer-beater against Michigan, detailing the bobble and execution in the final seconds. He elaborates on timeout philosophy, explaining when to use them based on game flow and team confidence. Johnson discusses substitution patterns, balancing player rest with momentum, and shares an anecdote about his mother questioning his decisions. The episode previews the upcoming game against #15 Oregon, with Johnson praising coach Dana Altman and the Ducks' talent. He encourages fans to attend the Saturday afternoon game at Williams Arena, highlighting its importance for home-court advantage. The interview concludes with Johnson's appreciation for the hosts, and the episode ends with promotional ads and closing remarks.

As heard by us

Ben Johnson explains the basketball logic behind Minnesota's recent wins and Femi Odekali's role at point guard.

Gophers Basketball Weekly with Ben Johnson stays focused on Minnesota's back-to-back Big Ten wins over Michigan and Iowa, while Mike Grimm and Justin Gard steer the conversation toward Ben Johnson's use of Femi Odekali at point guard.

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Why you'd press play

You want the coaching logic behind Minnesota's latest Big Ten wins.

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