As for Royce White, the Gophers should consider themselves fortunate that Royce didn’t end up in a cell and bring yet further embarrassment to the program. We never had the Royce White of today because he has had to encounter the bumps and bruises of the real world. Bumps and bruises that have caused him to straighten up and mature to the point where he can get on the court and play basketball. That person never existed while at the UofM.

No anxiety or affliction caused Royce to steal merchandise from a store at the Mall of America and subsequently shove a security guard. No affliction caused him to be implicated in the dormitory thief of a co-ed’s computer.

If one bothered to check the record from last season, Colton Iverson took himself out of games due to penalties. He was in foul trouble virtually every game. It is difficult at best to lay the blame on Tubby’s system for Colton’s frustrations.

Then there is Devoe Joseph. Devoe had a brilliant end of season, especially in post-season play, during the end of season tournament. This during a time when Al Nolen had encountered injuries. But does anyone seriously believe Devoe could have run the point better than Al? I don’t. Al’s defense alone placed him at the top of the conference.

Coupled with Devoe’s normal expectation of starter minutes came his younger brother performing well for Texas during his one-and-done season.

I’ve never played basketball professionally and excelled like Ralph II, but I am a father raising competitive athlete sons. Believe me, Ralph II knows deep down that his son has limitations on the court. I don’t blame him for the frustrations. But Ralph III would get more playing time if he wasn’t so inconsistent and lacking in aggression.

I enjoy your weekly updates on Minnesota sports and am a regular at C.O.R.E.S. luncheons. Thank you….G.G.