Minnesota Gophers Advance to Sweet 16 with Win Over Ole Miss Rebels

Gophers overcome slow start to defeat Rebels in NCAA Tournament second round

Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:35pm

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The Minnesota Gophers survived an early scare from No. 13 seed Green Bay in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, winning 75-58. They then hosted No. 5 seed Ole Miss on Sunday afternoon with a berth to the Sweet 16 on the line, defeating the Rebels 80-76 in a hard-fought battle.

Why it matters

The Gophers' victory over Ole Miss marks their first trip to the Sweet 16 since 2021, a significant milestone for the program. The win also showcases the team's resilience, as they were able to overcome an early deficit against the veteran Rebels squad.

The details

Led by eighth-year head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin, the Rebels entered the game with a 24-11 overall record. Ohio State transfer Cotie McMahon led the team with 19.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game. However, the Gophers' four-guard lineup proved too much for the Rebels, as Minnesota was able to pull away in the fourth quarter for the victory.

  • The Gophers survived an early scare from No. 13 seed Green Bay in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday to win 75-58.
  • The Gophers hosted No. 5 seed Ole Miss on Sunday afternoon in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

The players

Yolett McPhee-McCuin

The eighth-year head coach of the Ole Miss Rebels.

Cotie McMahon

The Ohio State transfer who led the Ole Miss Rebels with 19.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Gophers will now advance to the Sweet 16, where they will face the winner of the Maryland vs. North Carolina matchup.

The takeaway

The Gophers' victory over Ole Miss showcases the team's resilience and ability to overcome early deficits, a trait that will be crucial as they continue their NCAA Tournament run. The win also marks a significant milestone for the program, as they return to the Sweet 16 for the first time in several years.