Gophers MBB Lands Another Ball-Handling Shooter out of Transfer Portal
The Minnesota Gophers men’s basketball team needed a lot of things heading into this offseason, but none more than a talented ball handler who can keep defenses guessing with his driving ability and outside shot. On Monday morning, they found that player via transfer portal Howard University guard, Elijah Hawkins. It’s the second ball handler he has pulled out of the portal this offseason.
NEWS: Howard transfer Elijah Hawkins has committed to Minnesota, he told @On3sports.
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) May 8, 2023
The 5-11 point guard averaged 12.9 points and 6.0 assists this past season. Shot 46% from three.
Story: https://t.co/nKQmso0fPN pic.twitter.com/KvBYqo3RjL
Hawkins — who has two seasons of eligibility remaining — is a lightning quick mover who can push the pace on offense and lock down perimeter players with his defense. He averaged 12.9 points, 6 assists and 3.6 rebounds per game last season, as a Sophomore, helping to lead Howard to the NCAA Tournament. Oh, and Elijah made 54 of his 116 3PT attempts last season, good for 47%, one of the best percentages in the country.
Hawkins’ biggest weakness is his lack of height. He is listed on the Howard University website as 5’11” but he must have been standing on a bucket when measured. I’d be surprised if he’s over 5’8″ (see highlight video below). Because of that, Elijah will have to find ways, in the Big Ten, to remain a scoring threat, when driving to the basket.
Nonetheless, this is a huge get for Johnson, whose job is probably on the line this season.
Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan
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