Minnesota Hosts No. 7 Maryland in Big Ten Season Opener Sunday
The University of Minnesota women’s basketball team is set to open its Big Ten season against No. 7 Maryland this Sunday. The match will begin at 3 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network. Fans can tune in to KFAN+ for live radio coverage.
Game Details
- Teams: Minnesota vs. No. 7 Maryland
- Date: Sunday
- Tip-off: 3 p.m. CT
- Location: Williams Arena
- TV Broadcast: Big Ten Network
- Radio: KFAN+ 96.7 FM
Recent Performance
The Golden Gophers enter this matchup with a 6-2 record. In their most recent game, they secured a convincing 77-40 victory against Samford. Three players stood out in that game, with Sophie Hart leading the team with 17 points and 10 rebounds, achieving her first double-double of the season.
Tori McKinney followed closely with 13 points, showcasing impressive shooting accuracy at 53.6% from the field. Niamya Holloway contributed a season-high of 10 points. The team’s defense was notable, holding Samford to just three points in the first quarter, highlighting their strong start to the season.
Player Highlights
- Sophie Hart: 17 points, 10 rebounds; averages 11.4 points and 6.5 rebounds.
- Tori McKinney: 13.2 points per game; season highs against Samford with 11 attempts, 4 assists, and 4 steals.
- Niamya Holloway: Matched a career high with five field goals.
- Mara Braun: 978 career points, closing in on 1,000.
Series History
The Gophers have historically struggled against Maryland, trailing the all-time series 1-15. Their only victory against the Terrapins dates back to 2015, when they won 77-73. Last season, Minnesota lost a close match 99-92 on the road, with Amaya Battle scoring a game-high 19 points.
Scouting Maryland
Maryland, currently ranked as the No. 7 team in the AP poll, boasts a strong lineup with four players averaging double-digit points. Oluchi Okananwa leads with 13.7 points, followed closely by Kaylene Smikle (13.1), Addi Mack (11.1), and Yarden Garzon (10.6). The Terrapins are coming off an impressive 92-44 win against Mount St. Mary’s.
As both teams prepare for their Big Ten season opener, fans can expect an exciting matchup filled with competitive spirit and high stakes.
