Minnesota showed who was the better team tonight with a convincing 104-88 win over Washington. Although not exactly a blowout, Minnesota coach Bob and his players outplayed Washington from start to end. "I was hoping for a better outcome," said Washington coach Bob during a post-game interview. "But they just overpowered us, and there was nothing we could do to adjust. Bob's team was more talented and better-prepared, and it would have taken quite a bit of luck for us to overcome that."

The loss was tough on Washington fans, who had expected great things from their team after some offseason moves. "I think reality is starting to sink in," said one team. "We didn't expect to see other teams outplaying us this badly, but Minnesota sure made their point."

Minnesota was led by Gisi (14 points, 16 boards, 2 assists, a steal, a block), Smith (11 points, 5 boards, 9 assists, 4 steals), Smith (23 points, a steal). Washington was led by Pearson (16 points, 6 boards, 4 assists), French (22 points, 2 steals, a block), Patterson (12 points, 10 boards, 1 assists, 2 blocks).

Minnesota are now 19-12 and 9-5 at home. They stay at #2 in the Northwest and remain at #6 overall in the Western Conference. Washington are now 9-24 with this loss. They hold at #5 in the Southeast and hold at #13 overall in the Eastern Conference.

box score Minnesota roster Washington roster