Gophers Land Former Minnesota Gatorade Player of the Year in Transfer Portal

Nolan Groves, a 6-foot-5 guard, is returning home to play for the University of Minnesota after one season at Texas Tech.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:23am

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A cubist-inspired illustration depicting a basketball player's movements and actions broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes, capturing the energy and dynamism of the sport.Groves' return to Minnesota adds a dynamic playmaker to the Gophers' roster, as the program looks to build momentum with a fresh infusion of local talent.Lubbock Today

Nolan Groves, the 2025 Minnesota Gatorade Player of the Year, has announced his commitment to transfer and play for the University of Minnesota men's basketball team. Groves spent his freshman season at Texas Tech, where he saw limited playing time, but showcased his versatility and toughness as a 6-foot-5 guard. He will have three years of eligibility remaining with the Gophers.

Why it matters

Groves' decision to transfer to Minnesota is a significant boost for the Gophers' program, as he becomes the first Minnesota Gatorade Player of the Year to play for the team since 2011. His addition provides the Gophers with a talented, local product who can contribute immediately and help the team improve upon their recent struggles.

The details

Groves was originally committed to Yale before a standout senior season at Orono High School, where he averaged 34.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 3.0 steals per game, earning him the 2025 Minnesota Gatorade Player of the Year award. He then reopened his recruitment, with Minnesota and Wisconsin both showing interest, before ultimately choosing to play at Texas Tech for his freshman year. However, with limited playing time, Groves has now decided to transfer back to his home state and join the Gophers.

  • Groves announced his commitment to the Gophers on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.
  • He played his freshman season at Texas Tech during the 2025-26 season, where he averaged just 5.7 minutes per game.

The players

Nolan Groves

A 6-foot-5 guard who was the 2025 Minnesota Gatorade Player of the Year while playing at Orono High School. He spent his freshman season at Texas Tech before deciding to transfer to the University of Minnesota.

Niko Medved

The recently hired head coach of the University of Minnesota men's basketball team, who pursued Groves as a high school prospect last offseason.

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What they’re saying

“COMING HOME #SkiUMah”

— Nolan Groves

What’s next

Groves will have three years of eligibility remaining with the Gophers and is expected to play a significant role in helping the team improve upon their recent struggles.

The takeaway

Nolan Groves' decision to transfer to the University of Minnesota is a major coup for the Gophers' program, as they land a talented, local product who was the 2025 Minnesota Gatorade Player of the Year. His addition provides the team with a versatile and experienced guard who can contribute immediately and help the Gophers take a step forward in the coming seasons.