Patterson and Odukale on the Mend: What Strategies Will Coach Johnson Deploy in the Upcoming Exhibition Game?

Gophers men’s basketball coach Ben Johnson eagerly awaits the return of promising player Lu’Cye Patterson, who is expected to play in Tuesday night’s exhibition match against Hamline at Williams Arena. Patterson, who missed the recent victory over Bemidji State due to a shoulder injury, could make a significant impact on his journey toward becoming one of Gophers’ standout players.

A Minneapolis native and former Minnesota Prep player, Patterson transferred from Charlotte to join the Gophers. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 210 pounds, he left a strong impression last season, averaging 14.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. Known for his scoring versatility across all three levels and his underrated passing ability, Patterson promises to add flexibility and strength to the Gophers’ defensive line. “Lu’Cye can score at all three levels,” noted guard Mike Mitchell Jr. “He’s a highly underrated passer.”

Adding to the lineup challenge, veteran guard Femi Odukale, a New Mexico State transfer, is also recovering from a mild hip injury. While he remains on a daily evaluation schedule, Odukale’s eventual return could provide crucial support at all three perimeter positions once fully fit. The medical team and coaching staff are carefully managing his recovery to ensure his best performance.

Coach Johnson remarked that Patterson would be a crucial piece in the defense and bring diverse tactical options when paired with Mitchell Jr. “We want a chance to assess Lu’Cye in this game,” Johnson shared. “Femi will still be day-to-day, but it’s nothing serious.” With Patterson’s return, the Gophers may experiment with defensive adjustments and new rotation strategies.

In the first exhibition game of the season, the Gophers demonstrated their strength when Mitchell Jr. and Brennan Rigsby, a transfer from Oregon, combined for 36 points, leading the team to a decisive victory over Bemidji State. Notably, they contributed seven of the team’s nine three-pointers, showcasing their effectiveness from the outside. Newcomer Asuma also made an impression, posting eight points, eight assists, and two blocks off the bench, establishing himself as a promising addition.

In preparation for the matchup against Hamline, Johnson revealed that some adjustments would be made to the lineup to give newer players an opportunity to gain experience. Veteran forward Dawson Garcia, last season’s leading scorer, may play limited minutes, focusing on preserving energy for the season ahead. “We want our newcomers to feel comfortable and grow into their expanded roles,” Johnson added. With a hope to rotate nine to ten players, Johnson views this as a chance to further assess the team’s depth and individual capabilities.

Patterson’s potential return against Hamline marks both a tactical move and a motivational milestone for the team. As the official season opener approaches on November 6 with a game against Oral Roberts, the Gophers hope to enter with a stronger, more unified lineup. With standout newcomers and support from veteran players, the Gophers men’s basketball team is gearing up for a promising and successful season.