Gophers Women’s basketball advances to Sweet 16 with last second Battle bucket

Minnesota had a feeling long before the NCAA Tournament began that something special might happen at home—and they made sure their arena would be ready. That belief paid off in unforgettable fashion.

With a roaring crowd inside Williams Arena—better known as “The Barn”—the Gophers rode the energy all the way to a dramatic finish. Senior guard Amaya Battle delivered the moment of the night, knocking down a go-ahead jumper with just 0.7 seconds left to lift Minnesota to a 65–63 win over Mississippi in the second round of the women’s NCAA Tournament.

The shot capped off a standout performance from Battle, who recorded 14 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists. After taking the inbound pass near the paint, she dribbled along the baseline to create space, then calmly turned and hit the game-winner. As the ball dropped, she fell backward, quickly surrounded by celebrating teammates as the crowd erupted.

Mississippi had one last chance, but Tianna Thompson’s three-point attempt at the buzzer hit the front rim and bounced away, sealing the Gophers’ first trip to the Sweet 16 in 21 years.

Minnesota’s comeback effort was fueled by Mara Braun, who led the team with 17 points, including a clutch three-pointer that tied the game with just over a minute remaining. Shortly after, the Gophers forced a shot-clock violation, shifting momentum in their favor. Sophie Hart then gave Minnesota its first lead since early in the third quarter with a tough inside basket with 18 seconds left.

Mississippi answered quickly, as Latasha Lattimore tied the game with a layup with three seconds remaining. But Battle’s heroics ensured the Gophers would have the final word—and a ticket to the next round in Sacramento, where they’ll face the winner of UCLA and Oklahoma State.

The electric atmosphere played a major role. Minnesota head coach Dawn Plitzuweit called it the loudest environment she had ever experienced, while Mississippi coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin acknowledged the impact of the home crowd, saying it made communication nearly impossible.

Mississippi was also hurt by foul trouble. Leading scorer Cotie McMahon fouled out midway through the fourth quarter after scoring 15 points, leaving the Rebels without one of their top players during a critical stretch in which they struggled to score.

Sira Thienou led Mississippi with 18 points, continuing her strong return from injury, but one key moment late in the game stood out. With the shot clock winding down and the crowd roaring, she passed up a shot opportunity, leading to a violation—a decision her coach said she’ll learn from.

Backed by more than 10,700 fans, Minnesota fed off the energy all game long. Braun said the crowd’s intensity pushed her to make big plays and made the experience one she’ll never forget.

In the end, Minnesota’s early belief, home-court advantage, and clutch performances came together for a historic win—and a long-awaited return to the Sweet 16.