Trevor Mbwake said he had no part in speculation this spring that he would declare for the June NBA draft and never play for the Gophers. Mbwake, a junior college transfer from Miami Dade, is expected to provide the Gophers with rebounding and a physical presence around the basket next season.
At about 6-8, 240 pounds, Mbwake averaged over 12 rebounds at Dade. He was the conference player of the year and helped his team win the league championship. He frequently was in double figures in rebounds and scoring, twice being named National Junior College Athletic Association Player of the Week. The former Saint Bernard’s and Henry Sibley prep played for Marquette before transferring to Miami Dade.
NBA scouts will be curious to see how his rebounding and scoring develop with the Gophers. Mbwake told Sports Headliners leaving the Gophers after next season is a possibility.
“It depends on how my season goes,” he said. “Like coach Smith told me, if the opportunity ever came, that he has no problem with me leaving. So however my season goes I’ll sit down at the end of the year with coach Smith and my family, and we’ll come up with the best decision for me.”
His decision to declare for the draft will be influenced, too, by how successful the Gophers are next season and prospects for the 2010-11 season. He wants to be part of a Big Ten championship team and a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
Mbwake, of course, will have to earn a position in the starting lineup to probably earn serious consideration by NBA scouts. Smith hasn’t filled out his lineup card yet for next season and is famous for using a lot of his players. Mbwake said he’s not concerned about starting. “As long as we’re winning, I am happy,” he said.
Mbwake wants to see the Gophers restart their winning tradition and is impressed with how Smith has transformed a lowly program into one that’s nationally ranked for next season. He likes the possibility the Gophers might become popular enough to sellout all of their games.
“That would be wonderful,” Mbwake said. “I love playing (in front of) big crowds.”