Minnesota’s women’s basketball program announced that head coach Dawn Plitzuweit has agreed to a contract extension that will keep her at the helm through the 2031‑32 season, a move that locks in the leadership that has propelled the team into the national conversation.
A Decade‑Long Vision for Minnesota Women’s Basketball
Under Plitzuweit’s guidance, the Gophers have posted a 69‑36 overall record and a 26‑28 mark in Big Ten play over three seasons, including three consecutive 20‑plus win campaigns and a Sweet 16 appearance in the 2025‑26 NCAA Tournament.
The program’s breakthrough continued when Minnesota captured the 2025 WBIT Championship, defeating Belmont 75‑63, and the team’s resurgence has been fueled by the development of stars such as Amaya Battle, Mara Braun, Grace Grocholski and Tori McKinney, each earning All‑Big Ten honors.
Recruiting has also been a cornerstone of the revival; the 2026 class brings in Wisconsin’s top prospect and the second‑ranked player in Minnesota, signaling a continued influx of talent.
Athletic director Mark Coyle’s own contract was extended through 2032, with his compensation rising from $2 million to $2.5 million, underscoring the university’s commitment to sustaining the program’s upward trajectory.
With the new extensions in place, the Gophers are positioned to build on their recent successes, aiming for deeper tournament runs and sustained excellence in the coming decade.