The University of Minnesota’s women’s basketball team secured a significant victory on January 11, 2026, defeating then-No. 21 Southern California, 63-62. This win marked the Gophers’ first triumph over a ranked opponent since 2019, offering a much-needed boost to the program’s confidence.
Following this victory, the Gophers face a formidable challenge as they prepare to host No. 3 UCLA at Williams Arena. The game is scheduled for 19:00 local time, and it represents a crucial opportunity for Minnesota to solidify its position in the competitive landscape of women’s college basketball.
Dawn Plitzuweit, head coach of the Gophers, acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming match, stating, “It doesn’t get any easier with UCLA coming. We’ve got to get recovered as quickly as possible.” The Big Ten Conference is known for its intensity, with eight of its 18 teams currently ranked and several others, including Minnesota, receiving votes in the latest Associated Press poll.
The Gophers will be facing a daunting opponent in the Bruins, who boast a 15-1 record this season. UCLA is currently ranked as the ninth-highest scoring team in the nation, averaging 87.1 points per game. The team features senior center Lauren Betts, a projected top-five pick in the upcoming WNBA Draft, who contributes significantly with an average of 16.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game.
Minnesota’s defense has been impressive, allowing only 51.8 points per game, which ties them with the top-ranked UConn Huskies for the fewest points allowed in the nation. This matchup will serve as a litmus test for the Gophers, who are currently seeded No. 8 in ESPN’s latest Bracketology projection.
While Minnesota has faced challenges against ranked opponents earlier in the season, including close losses to Maryland and Michigan, they have shown resilience. In their recent game against USC, the Gophers overcame a significant deficit, erasing a 19-0 run by the Trojans. Plitzuweit praised her team’s ability to execute fundamentals effectively, stating, “We can say it all we want ‘We can compete at the highest level,’ but then to actually come out on top, it certainly helps you from a confidence standpoint.”
The upcoming clash against UCLA is not just another game; it could be a defining moment for the Gophers’ season. A victory would not only enhance their standing but also improve their chances of participating in the NCAA tournament in March. With the energy and excitement surrounding this matchup, fans and players alike are eager to see how Minnesota will perform against one of the nation’s elite teams.
