The University of Minnesota is set to welcome a long‑awaited basketball rivalry as the Golden Gophers will host the St. Thomas Tommies in both men’s and women’s contests over the coming weeks.
A historic matchup returns
The men’s showdown is slated for November 6, with the women’s game following on December 1, both taking place on the Twin Cities campus. This will mark the first meeting between the men’s programs since 1934 and the inaugural contest for the women’s squads.
Niko Medved, who begins his second season as head coach of the Gophers men, expressed enthusiasm about the matchup, noting the program’s recent growth and the excitement of adding new talent.
Minnesota’s roster will feature returning standouts such as Jaylen Crocker‑Johnson, Isaac Asuma, Bobby Durkin and Grayson Grove, while five offseason transfers — Kyan Evans, Winters Grady, Nolan Groves, Malick Kordel and Malachi Palmer — are expected to make an impact.
Women’s team poised for another deep run
Under fourth‑year head coach Dawn Plitzuweit, the Gophers women are coming off a historic season that saw them reach the Sweet 16 for the first time in more than two decades. The squad returns All‑Big Ten selections Mara Braun, Tori McKinney and Grace Grocholski.
St. Thomas, guided by John Tauer, posted a 24‑10 record last year and captured a 12‑4 mark in the Summit League. After a strong finish, the Tommies earned a berth in the National Invitational Tournament.
Both schools are eager to showcase their programs on a national stage, with fans anticipating a competitive and memorable series.