Gophers miss on Malik Olajuwon, shift focus in 2027 recruiting
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 2, 2026, 1:48 PM
Last updated Oct 2, 2026

Four-star guard Malik Olajuwon has committed to SMU, leaving the Gophers without one of their top targets for the 2027 recruiting cycle. Niko Medved and his staff recently secured Isaiah Santos but will now seek additional prospects following Olajuwon's commitment. The new NCAA rules and the current roster dynamics complicate recruiting strategy, as Minnesota evaluates potential targets like Jordan Page and Ahmed Nur. The Gophers may prioritize the 2028 class as roster changes loom in the coming years.
- •Malik Olajuwon commits to SMU, denouncing Minnesota's offer.
- •Niko Medved lands four-star forward Isaiah Santos for 2027.
- •Recruiting adjusted due to NCAA's new five-for-five rule.
- •Jordan Page and Ahmed Nur remain potential targets for the Gophers.
- •Medved may focus on the 2028 class for further roster improvement.
- 1:48 PMYahoo Sports — Gophers miss out on NBA Hall of Famer's son: What's next for Niko Medved?
"One of Minnesota's top targets in the 2027 cycle is heading elsewhere.
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