Main Story

Minnesota opens its 2026-27 women’s basketball season at home against Harvard on Monday, Nov. 2. The Gophers are coming off a Sweet 16 run and return key starters Mara Braun and Grace Grocholski, while adding six newcomers. Harvard arrives after a 20-win season and returns leading scorer Karlee White.

By the Numbers
  • 5 p.m. CT: Scheduled tipoff at The Barn.
  • 4-0: Minnesota’s all-time record against Harvard.
  • 6: Newcomers joining the Gophers—three transfers and three freshmen.
  • 20-12: Harvard’s record last season.
  • 15.0 points per game: Karlee White’s scoring average last season.
Yes, But

Minnesota brings strong momentum and returning experience, but junior guard Tori McKinney is out for the season with a knee injury. The Gophers will also need to integrate six newcomers as they begin the season.

State of Play
  • Minnesota’s returning starters include Braun and Grocholski, who started all 33 games last season.
  • Harvard returns 13 players, including White, after reaching the WBIT quarterfinals.
  • The game will stream on B1G+ and air on KFAN+.
What's Next

The season opener will offer an early look at how Minnesota’s returning core and new additions fit together, with Harvard providing a test against an experienced team.

Bottom Line

Minnesota starts the season with high expectations after its Sweet 16 breakthrough, but a reshaped roster and McKinney’s absence make Monday’s opener an important first measure.