The Gophers addressed one of their biggest offseason needs on Sunday, receiving a commitment from Drake transfer Liam Robbins. A 7-foot center, Robbins announced his decision to join Minnesota just one day after entering the NCAA transfer portal.

Robbins is a key addition to the team as one of the most coveted front court transfers in the nation. He had a standout season with Drake in 2019, averaging 14.1 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. His average of 2.9 blocks per contest ranked fifth in Division I men’s basketball.

With Daniel Oturu choosing to declare for the NBA Draft, the future of the Gophers’ front court looked uncertain, making Robbins a valuable pick up for head coach Richard Pitino. Robbins will be a junior in 2020-21, meaning he has two seasons of eligibility remaining.

It remains unclear, however, whether Robbins will receive a waiver to become immediately eligible for the upcoming 2020-21 season. Although the NCAA is considering a motion to grant transfers a one-time exception for immediate eligibility, recent reports suggest that rule would not go into effect until 2021-22.

Regardless of his status next year, Robbins should feel at home with Minnesota as he has significant family ties to the program. He is the nephew of Ed Conroy, who the Gophers promoted to associate head coach yesterday. Hunt Conroy, Ed Conroy’s son and Robbins’ cousin, is also a player on the team.