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Shaka Smart was at the top of the Gophers' list, but he's reportedly staying at home.

The Gophers traveled Wednesday to Grand Rapids, Mich., where they will open NCAA tournament play Friday against Yale. Coach Don Lucia addressed the media before the trip, saying the Gophers are healthy, refreshed and ready for a fast-paced game against the Bulldogs.

What's next for veteran cornerback Antoine Winfield? There's a lot to mull over as he considers starting over with a new team or potentially reuniting with the Vikings.

The young righthander comes over from Philadelphia and gets the ball for game one of 162.

Would Smart come to Minnesota? "I think he would seriously consider it," Greg Burton said.

Some notes and observations from the Gibson-Nagurski Football Complex.

Lakers defender Metta World Peace out with knee injury

The Wild has won six in a row in regulation, all by two goals or more. The last team to win seven in a row by two or more was Boston in 2008

Twins close to setting their roster

Jay Bilas was offended by Smith's firing, so that must mean Tubby was treated unfairly? Not a chance.

The sophomore has taken a leadership role but has competition, too.

Perceptions vary on the attractiveness of Tubby Smith’s old position and about which coach would be the right fit.

After the shortstop was banished to Class AAA Rochester last season, he accepted the challenge to play second.

Both sides say they want tests, but a lack of trust is the main obstacle.

The Wolves blew open a rather close game in the third quarter, using pesky defense, excellent ball movement and — get this -- rather stunning accuracy from three-point range

Chuck Fletcher said he doesn’t feel pressure to necessarily extend the contracts of potential restricted free agents Cal Clutterbuck and Jared Spurgeon before the April 3 trade deadline.