Gophers Women's Basketball Seeks Transfer Portal Splash

Minnesota has a chance to build on its Sweet 16 run with high-profile portal additions.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 3:41pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic action of a women's basketball game, with sharp planes of maroon and gold representing the University of Minnesota colors.The Gophers' transfer portal pursuit could reshape the future of their women's basketball program.Minneapolis Today

The University of Minnesota women's basketball team is coming off its best season in over 20 years, reaching the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. With several key players returning, the Gophers have an opportunity to make a big splash in the transfer portal this offseason to further bolster their roster and take the next step as a program.

Why it matters

The Gophers have momentum after their tournament run and strong fan interest, giving them the financial resources to potentially land high-profile transfer targets. Adding an impact player could help Minnesota establish itself as a consistent contender in the Big Ten and nationally.

The details

The Gophers have openings at point guard and center after the departures of Sophie Hart and Finau Tonga. They are eyeing potential transfers like Iowa State's Audi Crooks, Stanford's Nunu Agara, and former Hopkins High standout Liv McGill, who is in the portal after a strong season at Florida. Landing any of those players could be a major coup, but their high price tags may be out of Minnesota's range.

  • The transfer portal officially opened in April 2026.
  • The Gophers are coming off a Sweet 16 appearance in the 2025-26 season.

The players

Audi Crooks

A superstar forward from Iowa State who could be a game-changing addition for the Gophers' frontcourt.

Nunu Agara

A Minneapolis native who spent three seasons at Stanford and could provide an experienced option in the backcourt.

Liv McGill

A former Hopkins High School standout who averaged over 22 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists per game at Florida last season.

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What’s next

The Gophers will need to determine if they have the financial resources to land one of the high-profile transfer targets, and which player would best fit their system and roster needs.

The takeaway

Minnesota's women's basketball program is on the rise, and the transfer portal presents a chance to take another big step forward. Landing an impact player like Crooks, Agara or McGill could help the Gophers cement their status as a consistent contender in the Big Ten and nationally.