Gophers Women's Basketball Team Earns NCAA Tournament Bid

Minnesota to host regional for first time in 21 years

Mar. 19, 2026 at 3:03am

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The University of Minnesota women's basketball team, led by head coach Dawn Plitzuweit, has earned a spot in the 2026 NCAA Tournament. This marks the Gophers' first tournament appearance since 2018, and they will be hosting a regional tournament for the first time in 21 years.

Why it matters

The Gophers' return to the NCAA Tournament is a significant milestone for the program, as they look to build on their recent success and make a deep postseason run. Hosting a regional tournament also provides a unique opportunity for the team and its fans to experience the excitement of March Madness on their home court.

The details

The Gophers will face off against Green Bay in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday. The team is led by head coach Dawn Plitzuweit, who is in her second season with the program. Players Sophie Hart and Grace Grocholski are also expected to play key roles for the Gophers as they aim to advance in the tournament.

  • The Gophers last made the NCAA Tournament in 2018.
  • Minnesota will be hosting a regional tournament for the first time in 21 years.

The players

Dawn Plitzuweit

Head coach of the University of Minnesota women's basketball team.

Sophie Hart

A key player on the Gophers' women's basketball team.

Grace Grocholski

Another important player on the Gophers' women's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“This week on the FOX 9 Gopher Coaches Show, the University of Minnesota women's basketball team is dancing. The Gophers and Dawn Plitzuweit are in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2018, and the Gophers are hosting a regional for the first time in 21 years.”

— Ahmad Hicks, FOX 9 reporter

“The Gophers will face off against Green Bay in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday.”

— Justin Gaard, KFAN reporter

What’s next

The Gophers will take on Green Bay in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday, with the winner advancing to the next round.

The takeaway

The Gophers' return to the NCAA Tournament and the opportunity to host a regional tournament is a significant accomplishment for the program, as they look to build on their recent success and make a deep postseason run.