BleedGopher
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per the STrib:
The Gophers are one of many teams willing to travel far and face tough tests in college basketball’s ever-growing lineup of “holiday tournaments.” This season, 180 teams will play in 24 major tournaments before the conference season. Of these two dozen events, only nine were around 10 years ago.
The hectic schedule and short preparation time between games can take their toll on teams, especially young squads such as the Gophers. A poor tournament showing could derail early confidence, at a time of year when power-conference teams need to be posting victories, and stain an NCAA tournament résumé.
“It can be challenging,” Pitino said. “There are a lot of things to factor in.”
The rewards outweigh the risks, however, for most programs. The events bring great exposure, challenging competition, bonding opportunities and provide another recruiting draw. Many coaches, Pitino included, also relish the opportunity to take players off campus for unique on- and off-court experiences.
http://www.startribune.com/there-s-...ers-open-tournament-in-puerto-rico/351585601/
Go Gophers!!
The Gophers are one of many teams willing to travel far and face tough tests in college basketball’s ever-growing lineup of “holiday tournaments.” This season, 180 teams will play in 24 major tournaments before the conference season. Of these two dozen events, only nine were around 10 years ago.
The hectic schedule and short preparation time between games can take their toll on teams, especially young squads such as the Gophers. A poor tournament showing could derail early confidence, at a time of year when power-conference teams need to be posting victories, and stain an NCAA tournament résumé.
“It can be challenging,” Pitino said. “There are a lot of things to factor in.”
The rewards outweigh the risks, however, for most programs. The events bring great exposure, challenging competition, bonding opportunities and provide another recruiting draw. Many coaches, Pitino included, also relish the opportunity to take players off campus for unique on- and off-court experiences.
http://www.startribune.com/there-s-...ers-open-tournament-in-puerto-rico/351585601/
Go Gophers!!