Double-double machine Frank Mitchell commits to Minnesota

The Gophers have found their replacement for starting big man Pharrel Payne as former Canisius star Frank Mitchell announced his commitment to Minnesota via the transfer portal. 

Ryan James of Gopher Illustrated broke the news and Mitchell confirmed the report. 

Mitchell averaged 12.4 points and 11.7 rebounds per game as a junior this past season and he led the MAAC with 15 double-doubles. 

Mitchell was fourth in the nation at the D1 level in rebounding in 2023-24. 

Mitchell should immediately project as a starter, cementing four of five positions pending the decision freshman guard Cam Christie makes, be it keep his name in the NBA Draft or return to the U of M for his sophomore season. 

Minnesota will return Elijah Hawkins, Mike Mitchell Jr. and Dawson Garcia to the starting lineup, along with role players Parker Fox and Kayden Betts.