Hollins may start as freshman
Freshman point guard Andre Hollins may get an honor coach Tubby Smith has only extended to a freshman once before in his long and distinguished coaching career: he may be named the Gophers’ regular starter at the position in his first year of college-level play. The only player previously so honored was Rajon Rondo, who went on to become a star with the Boston Celtics.
Now, being named the Gophers’ starter is no guarantee Hollins has similar success inscribed all over his future. He could just as easily face the prospect of spending his life searching for money-saving promo codes to make ends meet. But is it a good start to his college career? It certainly would be.
Hollins is perhaps the best of a weak crop of point guards Smith has recruited since beginning his stint in Minnesota. Last year’s starter, Al Nolan, was recruited by his predecessor, and the heir apparent Smith landed, Devoe Joseph, became impatient waiting his turn at Minnesota and transferred to Oregon last winter.
Yet Smith won’t just give Hollins the ball automatically; he still has to work hard and prove he deserves the nod over Julian Welch and Maverick Ahanmisi.
