Barnyard Spotlight: Al Nolen
From Diapers to Dunks:
Two of the top prep basketball players in Minnesota faced off in mid-February 2006, as the Braham Bombers and Michigan State recruit Isaiah Dahlman traveled to Minneapolis Henry to face junior Al Nolen and the Patriots. With Nolen’s commitment to the Gophers before the season began, and Braham’s lofty expectations following back-to-back Class 2A Championships, the game was destined to be a battle of the bright young stars. By the end of the game, Dahlman had a better stat line, but Nolen proved victorious in handing the Bombers their second defeat in 80 games with a 70-62 win. Nursing a one-point lead at halftime, Nolen started the second half with a steal and fast-break layup to teammate Tim Saxon. Nolen then followed with a basket of his own, and after a few minutes the Patriots had grabbed a 38-31 lead and never looked back. Nolen finished with 28 points, 12 rebounds, and four steals. Dahlman tallied 31 points for Braham, who went on to win the Class 2A Championship.
The Barnyard Quiz
1) Why did you choose the Gophers?
Because I grew up in Minneapolis
2) What has been your biggest thrill as a Gopher?
The win against Indiana last year in the Big Ten Tournament
3) How do you get ready before a game?
Listen to music
4) What’s a little known fact about you?
I am king of Madden on Xbox 360 for real
5) Who is your favorite former Gopher?
Bobby Jackson – he was a great player
6) The Gophers are down 1 with :05 left & Coach Smith is locked in the bathroom – what play do you run?
Any play that gets us the win
7) After winning the 2009 NCAA’s what song do you dance to at the welcome home celebration?
My Dougie
8)When your career as a Gopher is over, what would you like to be remembered for?
A leader