The Gophers women’s basketball team had their first official practice of the 2025-2026 season on Tuesday at Williams Arena and it’s clear how high the goals are. “We have high expectations for this group,” redshirt junior guard Mara Braun said. They haven’t made the NCAA Tournament since 2018. But with Braun, Heyer, and Battle leading the way, it seems a breakthrough season is on the cusp of happening. The Gophers will host North Dakota, Manhattan, Marquette and NJIT to open play, with the first game Nov. 4.