TEMPE, AZ —The Minnesota women’s basketball team delivered an impressive defensive performance, limiting Oregon State’s shooting from beyond the arc to a mere 18.2 percent. The Beavers struggled significantly with 4-for-22 shooting from 3-point range, contributing to a decisive 73-38 victory for the Golden Gophers at Desert Financial Arena on Saturday.
The Golden Gophers, improving their record to 4-0, showcased a balanced scoring approach with three players reaching double figures. Leading the charge was Annika Stewart, who scored 13 points, while Grace Grocholski contributed with 10 points alongside nine rebounds. Mara Braun also made her mark with 10 points, completing a well-rounded offensive effort.
Minnesota excelled in maintaining possession and executing plays, registering 16 assists compared to just six turnovers—a season-low for the team. Amaya Battle was instrumental in the playmaking department, recording five assists and guiding the Golden Gophers’ efficient ball movement. On defense, Minnesota stifled Oregon State’s offense, holding them to only 28 percent shooting from the field, while their 3-point shooting woes were highlighted by the paltry 18.2 percent conversion rate.
How It Happened
After initially trailing 11-8, Minnesota sparked a comeback with a quick 5-0 run, taking a 13-11 lead with just 2:26 remaining in the first quarter. This score would set the tone, as Minnesota’s stingy defense capitalized on seven Oregon State turnovers, converting them into crucial points. Ultimately, this momentum secured Minnesota a 13-11 lead at the end of the period.
Oregon State rallied briefly to tie the contest at 13-13 before Minnesota responded emphatically, unleashing an 8-0 run with Grace Grocholski and Mara Braun contributing significant scoring. By the conclusion of the second period, the Golden Gophers had extended their lead to 30-20 heading into halftime, aided by forcing five turnovers from Oregon State, which translated into five points for Minnesota.
After intermission, Minnesota persisted in building its lead, stretching it to 44-30 before igniting another 8-0 run, capped by a three-pointer from Braun. This surge elevated Minnesota’s lead to 52-30 with 2:21 left in the third quarter. Despite a slight resurgence from the Beavers, Minnesota maintained control, entering the final quarter with a comfortable 52-36 lead. Throughout the third period, Minnesota’s inside game flourished, with 12 of their 22 points coming from the paint.
Minnesota continued to dominate, pushing the lead to 56-38 before unleashing a staggering 17-0 run, concluding with a successful three-pointer from McKenna Johnson. This run increased their lead to 73-38 with just 41 seconds remaining in the game. The Golden Gophers’ bench play was crucial, contributing 13 of the team’s 21 points during the final quarter, demonstrating the depth of the roster.
Game Notes
» Minnesota’s six turnovers against the Beavers marked the fewest in a single game this season and the second fewest under head coach Dawn Plitzuweit.
» The Gophers maintained their lead from the 13-11 mark onward, never trailing after that point.
» Stewart has now led the Gophers in scoring from the bench on two occasions this season.
» Minnesota’s defense was particularly effective, restricting Oregon State to just 28.0 percent shooting, the lowest field goal percentage allowed by a Dawn Plitzuweit-led team against a Power 4 opponent.
» The Minnesota bench made a significant impact, scoring 32 points, marking the third occurrence this season where the reserves topped 30 points.
» Minnesota claimed a 41-35 advantage on the boards in this commanding win.
» The Golden Gophers excelled on the offensive glass, securing 13 offensive rebounds throughout the contest.
How does the team’s balanced scoring contribute to their overall success this season?
**Interview with Annika Stewart, Forward for the Minnesota Golden Gophers Women’s Basketball Team**
**Editor**: Annika, congratulations on the impressive victory against Oregon State! The team’s defense was outstanding, holding them to just 18.2 percent from beyond the arc. What was the defensive strategy coming into the game?
**Annika Stewart**: Thank you! Our main focus was on communication and staying disciplined. We knew that Oregon State had some strong shooters, so we emphasized closing out on their shooters and forcing them to take contested shots. Our coaches had us well-prepared, and I think that really showed on the court.
**Editor**: You had a balanced scoring effort with three players in double figures. How important is it for the team to maintain that balance as the season progresses?
**Annika Stewart**: It’s crucial! Having multiple scoring threats keeps defenses guessing and makes it harder for them to key in on any one player. When we share the ball and find the open player, it not only elevates everyone’s game but also builds our team chemistry.
**Editor**: Five assists from Amaya Battle really stood out in the playmaking department. How does her presence impact the team’s flow on offense?
**Annika Stewart**: Amaya is a great playmaker and a leader on the floor. Her ability to distribute the ball and read defenses opens up opportunities for everyone. She’s incredibly unselfish and always looking to help her teammates score, which creates a fluid offensive rhythm.
**Editor**: You started the game trailing but managed to rally back with a strong run. What was the mindset during that challenging start?
**Annika Stewart**: We always try to stay positive, even when we find ourselves in a tough spot. We reminded each other to stick to our game plan and trust our skills. The quick run helped us regain confidence, and we really started to feed off that energy.
**Editor**: Looking forward, how do you plan to build on this strong start to the season as you move into more challenging games?
**Annika Stewart**: We need to keep focusing on our fundamentals, especially defense and ball movement. Every team we face will come out strong, but if we continue to work hard and trust each other, I believe we can achieve great things this season.
**Editor**: Great insights, Annika! Best of luck with the upcoming games. Thanks for joining us!
**Annika Stewart**: Thank you for having me! Go Gophers!
