Minnesota Golden Gophers Reload Roster with 2025 Recruiting Class and Key Transfers
The Minnesota Golden Gophers men’s basketball program, now led by head coach Niko Medved, is undergoing a major roster transformation as it prepares for the 2025–26 season. With a blend of promising freshmen and seasoned transfers, the Gophers are looking to climb the Big Ten ladder and return to national relevance.
The incoming 2025 recruiting class is highlighted by three key freshmen. Parker Jefferson, a 6-foot-10 center from Dallas, Texas, is considered a versatile big man with strong passing and rebounding abilities. He chose the Gophers over offers from USC and other Power Five schools. Joining him is 6-foot-5 wing Jacob Ross from Los Angeles, California. Ross, a top-200 national prospect, committed to Minnesota after visits with Kansas State and VCU. The third freshman is Kai Shinholster, a 6-foot-6 athletic wing from Philadelphia who brings energy and scoring punch to the lineup.
Complementing the youth movement is a strong transfer class, featuring players from across the country. Bobby Durkin, a 6-foot-7 forward from Davidson, is expected to be a major contributor after averaging 13.5 points and nearly 6 rebounds per game last season. Robert Vaihola, a 6-foot-8 forward from San Jose State, adds size and rebounding muscle, having averaged 7.6 points and 7.0 rebounds.
At center, the Gophers secured 6-foot-10 Nehemiah Turner from Central Arkansas, who finished the 2024–25 season on a tear, scoring nearly 20 points per game over his final 10 contests. In the backcourt, Minnesota added defensive-minded guard Femi Odukale from Pittsburgh and former Colorado State guard Lu’Cye Patterson, both of whom bring experience and toughness. Tyler Cochran, a gritty 6-foot-5 guard from Northern Illinois, rounds out the transfer class with defensive versatility and leadership.
With this combination of high-upside freshmen and proven college talent, the Gophers are poised for a fresh start under Coach Medved. The 2025–26 season promises to be a turning point as the program rebuilds with a roster built to compete now and into the future.
