Minnesota Golden Gophers vs Washington Huskies Picks and Predictions February 1st 2025

Washington Seeks to End Losing Streak Against Minnesota

The Washington Huskies (10-10, 1-8 Big Ten) will try to snap a six-game losing streak when they visit the Minnesota Golden Gophers (11-10, 3-7) in a Big Ten showdown on Saturday.

While the Huskies have struggled, they received a boost last week with the return of 6-foot-11 center Franck Kepnang, who played his first meaningful conference minutes since 2022.

The Golden Gophers are also coming off a tough loss to No. 7 Michigan State, where they struggled offensively.

Key Storylines Heading into the Matchup

• Franck Kepnang’s return has provided Washington with much-needed size and energy.
• Dawson Garcia has been dominant for Minnesota, averaging 20+ points in his last six games.
• Both teams are desperate for a win, with Washington on a six-game skid and Minnesota reeling from a 22-point loss to Michigan State.

Washington Huskies: Can Kepnang’s Return Make a Difference?

Washington has had one of the toughest schedules in the Big Ten, facing five ranked teams during its losing streak.

The Huskies showed signs of improvement in Friday’s 65-60 loss to UCLA, a game where they held a second-half lead before fading late.

Key Players for Washington:

• Franck Kepnang (6’11”, Center) – Played 21 minutes against UCLA, posting seven points, eight rebounds, and two blocks.
• Great Osobor (15.5 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 3.2 APG, 2.1 SPG) – The Huskies’ most consistent player and leader in multiple statistical categories.
• Keion Brooks Jr. (13.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG) – Washington’s second-leading scorer, capable of big offensive nights.

Huskies coach Danny Sprinkle praised Kepnang’s intensity and is hopeful his presence will help Washington compete inside against Minnesota’s strong frontcourt.

“He knows one speed, which is what makes him a special player. I thought he looked terrific out there,” Sprinkle said.

Washington has struggled defensively, allowing 72.5 points per game, which ranks in the bottom half of the Big Ten. If they want to snap this streak, they must limit turnovers and defend Garcia effectively.

Minnesota Golden Gophers: Dawson Garcia’s Dominance

Minnesota saw its three-game winning streak end abruptly in a 73-51 blowout loss to Michigan State on Tuesday.

Despite the loss, Dawson Garcia was a bright spot, scoring 21 points to mark his sixth straight game with at least 20 points.

Key Players for Minnesota:

• Dawson Garcia (19.8 PPG, 7.3 RPG) – The focal point of the offense, Garcia can score at all three levels.
• Cam Christie (12.6 PPG, 3.1 RPG) – A reliable secondary scorer who can hit from deep.
• Elijah Hawkins (9.2 PPG, 7.8 APG) – One of the Big Ten’s best passers, Hawkins fuels the Gophers’ offense.

Minnesota’s biggest concern in the Michigan State loss was turnovers. The Gophers committed 11 first-half turnovers, which led to a 20-point halftime deficit they couldn’t recover from.

Coach Ben Johnson admitted his team struggled to find an offensive rhythm.

“There was no rhythm that we got into offensively,” Johnson said. “I didn’t feel like anybody really established themselves or got comfortable.”

Against Washington, the Gophers will need to take better care of the basketball and continue to feed Garcia in the paint.

Key Matchups to Watch

Franck Kepnang vs. Dawson Garcia

Garcia is one of the Big Ten’s most dominant forwards, but Kepnang’s return gives Washington a legitimate post defender.

Can Kepnang slow Garcia down, or will Minnesota’s star continue his 20+ point streak?

Great Osobor vs. Minnesota’s Defense

Osobor has been Washington’s most well-rounded player, but the Huskies will need more scoring from him to pull off a road upset.

Turnover Battle

Minnesota’s 11 first-half turnovers vs. Michigan State were a disaster. If they repeat those mistakes, Washington could capitalize in transition.

Prediction: Who Wins the Big Ten Showdown?

Both teams desperately need a win, but Minnesota has been more consistent at home.

Washington showed improvement against UCLA, but their defensive struggles and turnover issues could hold them back.

If Dawson Garcia dominates again, Minnesota should be able to take care of business at home.

Final Score Prediction: Minnesota 72, Washington 65

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Final Thoughts

• Can Washington finally snap its losing streak?
• Will Dawson Garcia continue his dominant scoring stretch?
• How much will Franck Kepnang impact the game defensively?

Minnesota has a strong home-court advantage, but Washington is improving. Expect a competitive battle in Minneapolis as the Huskies try to salvage their season.