Dark horse teams to win Big Ten Tournament

Minnesota, like Michigan State, is another team down the stretch that struggled also losing four of their last five games. Now I know I have two teams playing each other on this list, but I do think whichever one makes it through will be a very tough team to beat going forward.

Minnesota did not have as many flashy wins as Michigan State or Ohio State, but they did still have a solid enough season. I don't think they will be able to make the NCAA Tournament based on thier record alone, they would have to either win the Big Ten Tournament or make it pretty far to be considered.

Looking at the stats, the Golden Gophers have the sixth-best offense in the Big Ten which isn't bad, but they have the ninth-best defense, which could hurt them. However, thier point differential still favors them as they average 75.7 points per game and allow 71.6 points per game, giving them a +4.1 point differential.

What will help Minnesota the most will be their 3-point shot. The Golden Gophers shot 35.8 percent from beyond the arc and averaged about 8.0 three-pointers a game. They are ranked sixth in the Big Ten in three-point field goal percentage and sixth in three-pointers made.

Minnesota could be a dangerous team if they can get hot from behind the arc, so all I am saying is don't be surprised if they start making a run.

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