Minnesota Gophers Lose Robert Vaihola to Season-Ending Knee Surgery

The University of Minnesota men’s basketball team has suffered a major setback. Starting center Robert Vaihola will miss the rest of the 2025-26 season. He requires knee surgery, according to a report from the Pioneer Press. This news confirms a significant season-ending injury for the team’s frontcourt.The surgery is scheduled for this Friday. Vaihola has not played for the Gophers since November 18. He aggravated the existing knee issue during that game. His first season in Minneapolis ends after appearing in just five contests.

Vaihola’s Absence Creates Major Void in Gophers’ Frontcourt

The 6-foot-8 transfer from San Jose State started all five games he played. He was a key presence in the paint for Minnesota. Vaihola averaged 7.6 rebounds and 5.0 points per game this season. He logged over 21 minutes per contest as the primary big man.His loss is the second major blow to the starting lineup. Chansey Willis Jr. also suffered a season-ending injury earlier. The team must now rebuild its interior rotation mid-season. This puts immense pressure on remaining frontcourt players.

Gophers Forced to Rely on Youth and Adjustments

Head coach Ben Johnson faces a serious challenge. The team’s depth at the center position is now severely tested. Players like Jaylen Crocker-Johnson and Grayson Grove will see expanded roles. Freshman Nehemiah Turner may also be called upon for more minutes.The timing is particularly difficult. Minnesota is about to enter the heart of its Big Ten conference schedule. Their first league game of 2026 is this Saturday against Northwestern. Team strategy and lineups will need immediate adjustments without their starting center.

Travis Kelce Retirement Speculation Grows as Chiefs Season Finale Approaches

The Gophers’ season has been reshaped by this significant season-ending injury. The team’s resilience will be tested as they navigate a tough Big Ten schedule without a key starter.

Info at your fingertips

What injury does Robert Vaihola have?

Robert Vaihola is dealing with a significant knee injury. He aggravated the issue during a game on November 18. It now requires surgery, ending his season.

How many games did Vaihola play for Minnesota?

He played in only five games this season. All of those games were starts. His season ended in late November.

Who will replace Vaihola as the Gophers’ center?

The team will likely use a committee approach. Jaylen Crocker-Johnson and Grayson Grove are the primary candidates. Freshman Nehemiah Turner could also see increased playing time.

Can Robert Vaihola get a medical redshirt for this season?

He may be eligible to apply for a medical redshirt. He played in fewer than 30% of the team’s games. However, this would be his fourth collegiate year, adding complexity.

Is this the Gophers’ first major injury this season?

No, it is the second season-ending injury to a starter. Guard Chansey Willis Jr. was also lost for the year earlier this season. The team’s depth is being challenged.

Trusted Sources: Pioneer Press, University of Minnesota Athletics.