The Minnesota Golden Gophers women’s basketball team has made a triumphant return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2018, marking a significant milestone in the program’s history. This achievement comes after a strong season where the Gophers won 11 of their last 13 games, showcasing their resilience and determination on the court.
Under the leadership of head coach Dawn Plitzuweit, the Gophers have reached 13 wins in Big Ten play for only the third time in the program’s history. Plitzuweit has now accumulated 26 league wins in her first three seasons, ranking third in the program’s history. Her coaching prowess has been instrumental in revitalizing the Gophers’ performance.
As the Gophers prepare for the tournament, they carry a proud all-time NCAA Tournament record of 13-10. They have only hosted the NCAA Tournament twice, in 2004 and 2005, making this year’s participation even more special for the team and its supporters.
Ranked No. 18 in the AP Top 25 and No. 19 in the USA Today Coaches Poll, the Gophers have proven themselves as a formidable contender. Key players like Grace Grocholski, who leads the team with 380 points this season, and Amaya Battle, who recently surpassed Lindsay Whalen to become Minnesota’s No. 2 all-time assists leader, have been crucial to the team’s success.
Mara Braun has also been a standout, averaging 13.2 points per game in the last ten regular-season games, while Tori McKinney has contributed significantly with an average of 13.5 points per game over the last 12 games. Additionally, Sophie Hart recorded her fourth double-double of the season against Ohio State, highlighting the team’s depth and talent.
The Gophers’ journey to the NCAA Tournament has been marked by a nine-game winning streak from January 18 to February 18, 2026, a testament to their hard work and dedication. As they gear up for their upcoming match, the excitement within the community is palpable, with fans rallying behind their team.
Looking ahead, the Gophers are poised to make a strong showing in the tournament, and observers are eager to see how far this talented team can go. With the support of their loyal fans and a renewed spirit, the Minnesota Golden Gophers women’s basketball team is ready to take on the challenge ahead.
