Minnesota Women’s Basketball Team Continues to Shine with Defensive Dominance
The Minnesota women’s basketball team has been on a roll, with their defensive prowess being a key factor in their recent successes. Their latest victory, an 88-55 win over Purdue, showcased their exceptional defensive skills, with the team holding Purdue to just 30.9% shooting from the field through three quarters. This impressive performance has been a hallmark of the Gophers’ season, with opponents averaging only 36.2% shooting against them.
Coach Dawn Plitzuweit emphasized the importance of a defensive mindset, stating that “to be a really solid defensive team, you have to have a defensive mindset. You’ve got to want to be really good defensively, because it’s not necessarily as much fun as scoring points.” The team’s commitment to defense has paid off, with their season-high seven blocks against Purdue being a testament to their dedication.
Balanced Scoring Load and Exceptional Individual Performances
The Gophers’ victory over Purdue was not just about their defensive dominance; they also showcased a balanced scoring load, with multiple players contributing to the team’s success. Amaya Battle just missed her second straight double-double, with 17 points and nine rebounds, while Sophie Hart had 15 points, six rebounds, and a career-high-tying three blocks. Tori McKinney added 14 points, and Makena Christian had nine, demonstrating the team’s depth and versatility.
The team’s ability to share the offensive load has been a key factor in their success, with different players stepping up to make significant contributions. As Hart noted, “We’re focused on right now, helping one another… Just trying to be in the right gaps, get back, switches.” This selfless approach to the game has been instrumental in the Gophers’ winning streak, with their last three victories coming by margins of 33, 21, and 35 points.
Looking Ahead and Staying Focused
While the team’s first NCAA tournament berth since 2018 is within reach, they are choosing to focus on the present moment, rather than getting ahead of themselves. As Hart said, “It’s definitely a goal of ours, but you can’t really look all the way into March right now. The Big Ten is one of the best leagues, if not the best league, for college women’s basketball. We got to focus one game at a time. We cannot overlook anybody.” This disciplined approach has served the team well, and they will look to continue their winning ways as they face eighth-ranked Iowa on Thursday.
KiKi Smith led Purdue with 13 points, but it was not enough to overcome the Gophers’ defensive might. Coach Plitzuweit praised her team’s intensity, saying, “We really kind of challenged our young ladies to play at an intensity level that was higher. And I thought our young ladies responded and played really, really well.” The final score was a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication, with the Gophers ultimately emerging victorious, 88-55.
Kennedy Klick and Nia Holloway cheer from the bench during Minnesota’s win over Purdue at Williams Arena on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026. (Ceci De Young / Gophers Athletics)
Gophers guard Amaya Battle dribbles the ball during Minnesota’s game against Purdue at Williams Arena on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026. (Ceci De Young / Gophers Athletics)
Gophers coach Dawn Plitzuweit claps during Minnesota’s win over Purdue at Williams Arena on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026. (Ceci De Young / Gophers Athletics)
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