MINNEAPOLIS, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Rodney Williams and Damian Johnson helped Minnesota pull away late in the first half Thursday and the No. 18 Golden Gophers went on to down Utah Valley 76-51.
Minnesota won its third game of the season, all at home, but found itself locked in a close battle as time wound down in the opening period.
The Gophers held only a 21-20 lead with 4 minutes left in the half, then closed the period on an 11-4 run. Minnesota scored the first seven points of the second half to take control.
Williams had 17 points, six rebounds and four steals. Johnson added 15 points and six rebounds.
Jordan Swarbrick was the only Utah Valley player in double figures with 11 points. The Wolverines fell to 1-2.
Minnesota committed only four turnovers to 25 for Utah Valley.
