Gophers Suffer First Loss of Season in Close 63-57 Defeat at Kansas

UPDATE: The Minnesota Gophers women’s basketball team faced a heartbreaking defeat against Kansas, falling 63-57 in a fiercely contested road game on November 15, 2023. This marks the Gophers’ first loss of the season, dropping their record to 4-1.

In an urgent turn of events, the Gophers struggled early, shooting just 3 of 17 (17.6%) from the field in the first quarter, as the Jayhawks built a significant 10-point lead. However, Minnesota rallied to outscore Kansas 19-11 in the second quarter, taking a brief lead at 25-23.

Despite a strong comeback, including a tie at 49-all late in the game, Minnesota could not secure the win. With only 36 seconds left on the clock, the Gophers narrowed the gap to 59-57, but Kansas sealed their victory with free throws.

The Gophers finished the game with a shooting percentage of 34.4% and struggled from beyond the arc, making only 5 of 23 (21.7%) three-point attempts. Key players included Tori McKinney, who led the team with 14 points, followed closely by Mara Braun with 13 points and Grace Grocholski contributing 12 points.

Looking ahead, Minnesota will participate in the Baha Mar Hoops Pink Flamingo Championship tournament in Nassau, Bahamas. Their next matchup is against South Florida at 3 p.m. on November 20, 2023, followed by a potential game against Harvard or Alabama on November 22, 2023.

Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as the Gophers aim to rebound from this disappointing loss in their upcoming games.