Nanne said the Minnesota North Stars book that debuted in early October is now in its third printing, with 3,000 of the next 5,000 books already committed. The first two press runs of Minnesota North Stars: History And Memories With Lou Nanne were for 10,000 books each. Nanne said the coffee table sized book has information that “people don’t know” and its pages are filled with “600 great pictures.” He and author Bob Showers have several upcoming book signings including Friday, December 7 beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Barnes & Noble in Edina’s Galleria.
Nanne’s granddaughter, Bianca Lettieri, is a member of the Timberwolves dance line. She’s the daughter of former Minnesota Kicks soccer star Tino Lettieri.
Last Friday the Wild had a record number of visitors, about 2,000, at The Hockey Lodge inside Xcel Energy Center. People were purchasing holiday gifts during the Wild’s afternoon game with Columbus. Another 3,000 visitors were at the Wild’s Mall of America store. Derek Boogaard jersey sales are the best among Wild players.
The Wild’s new yearbook became available last week and has been well received by fans. Cost is $10 at the Hockey Lodge.
The Wild’s game tonight against Phoenix is the first of four straight at home, St. Louis (Friday), Vancouver (Sunday) and Philadelphia (next Wednesday). The Flyers are coming to Xcel Energy Center for only the second time in Wild history. They played the first-ever regular season game here in October of 2000.
When the Timberwolves broke their five game losing streak Monday night and won their second game of the season, there were experienced players on the floor late in the fourth quarter. The players were Antoine Walker (11 years NBA experience), Greg Buckner (eight years), Marko Jaric (five years), Sebastian Telfair (three years) and Al Jefferson (three years). The Wolves, 2-10, play the Mavericks in Dallas tonight before facing the defending NBA champion San Antonio Spurs at home on Friday night.
There are only 15 players in the NBA averaging more fouls per game than Wolves guard Rashad McCants. He is averaging 3.5 fouls.
UMD’s Jordan Nuness, son of former Gopher guard Al Nuness, has already made two all-tournament teams this fall. A senior shooting guard from Eden Prairie, Jordan has been averaging about 22 points per game.
The Vikings, who play against Detroit Sunday at the Metrodome, have been dominant against the Lions in Minnesota through the years, holding a 32-12-1 record.
The Vikings have five interception returns for touchdowns this season, one short of the best record in team history (six in 1992).
Vikings safety Darren Sharper needs 17 yards or more to reach 1,000 yards in career interception yardage.
Saint John’s senior quarterback Alex Kofoed and St. Thomas senior wide receiver P.J. Theisen have been named as two of the 10 finalists for the 15th annual Gagliardi Trophy. The award, presented to the outstanding football player in NCAA Division III, honors excellence in athletics, academics and community service. The award is sponsored by Jostens, Inc. and conducted by the J-Club of Saint John’s. This year’s winner will be announced on Monday, December 10 and will be presented on Thursday, December 13 in Salem, Virginia.