Sources told the Pioneer Press that Garcia turned down a couple of NIL paydays from other schools worth roughly $1 million — including from some traditional powerhouse programs — to remain at Minnesota for approximately $500,000.

Dawson Garcia scored the most points to open a Gophers men’s basketball season since 2020, and the whole team looked sharp with its passing and defense.

The Gophers shot 45.5% from the floor (25-for-55) but struggled from the three-point line, hitting only 17.6% of shots (3-for-17). Minnesota also had a tough time at the free throw line, hitting 57.7% (15-for-26).

Minnesota’s defense limited Summit League player of the year favorite Issac McBride to 1 for 7 from the field into the second half. The senior finished with a quiet 15 points on 4-of-11 shooting; he was a top 40 scorer in the nation at 19.8 points per game last year.

Dawson Garcia scored 24 points and reserve Trey Edmonds scored 12 points and Minnesota fought Omaha's spirited effort and beat the Mavericks 68-64.

Dawson Garcia scored 24 points on 9-for-16 shooting and pulled down a team-high seven rebounds, and Minnesota held on for a 68-64 win over Omaha on Saturday afternoon in Minneapolis.

Dawson Garcia scored 24 points and reserve Trey Edmonds scored 12 points and Minnesota fought Omaha's spirited effort and beat the Mavericks 68-64 on Saturday. Isaac Asuma made a 3-pointer with 5:51 remaining,