Sports
Minnesota Advances to Sweet 16 with Last-Second Shot Over Mississippi
Amaya Battle's tiebreaking jump shot with 0.7 seconds remaining secured a 65-63 victory for Minnesota over Mississippi in the second round of the NCAA Tournament on Sunday. This win marks the Gophers' first advancement to the Sweet 16 in 21 years.
The University of Minnesota women's basketball team hosted the opening weekend of March Madness at their home court, a decision made months prior to the tournament. Their foresight paid off as the Gophers benefited from robust fan support throughout the game. The decisive play saw senior guard Amaya Battle receive an inbound pass, manoeuvre for position, and sink the winning basket. Following the shot, Battle was met by her teammates in a spirited celebration. Mississippi's No. 5 seed Rebels, with a season record of 24-12, attempted a 3-pointer at the buzzer, but Tianna Thompson's shot missed, hitting the front of the rim. Gophers coach Dawn Plitzuweit described the atmosphere as the loudest she had ever experienced. Earlier in the game, Mara Braun contributed to Minnesota's effort, scoring 17 points, which included a crucial tying 3-pointer with 1:17 left on the clock.
Key Facts
- Amaya Battle made a tiebreaking jump shot with 0.7 seconds left to secure Minnesota's victory.
- Minnesota defeated Mississippi 65-63 in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
- This win sends the Gophers to the Sweet 16 for the first time in 21 years.
- Amaya Battle recorded 14 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists during the game.
- Mara Braun scored 17 points for Minnesota, including a tying 3-pointer with 1:17 remaining.
- Mississippi's Tianna Thompson attempted a 3-pointer at the buzzer, but it did not connect.
- The No. 5 seed Rebels concluded their season with a 24-12 record.
- Gophers coach Dawn Plitzuweit commented on the exceptionally loud environment during the game.