Opinion
3 min read

Can the Golden Gophers Upset Nebraska Cornhuskers at Pinnacle Bank Arena?

As the Minnesota Golden Gophers prepare to face off against the Nebraska Cornhuskers, fans are eager to see if their team can bounce back from a string of challenging games. The upcoming clash at Pinnacle Bank Arena on February 24th promises to be a pivotal moment for the Gophers' season.


Jan 14, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers forward Natalie Potts (22) works towards the basket as Minnesota Golden Gophers forward Mallory Heyer (24) defends during the second half at Williams Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

In their last encounter with Ohio State Buckeyes on February 9th, the Gophers struggled, scoring only 47 points compared to the Buckeyes' 71. The statistics were telling: a mere 36 percent field goal percentage and an even more concerning three-point percentage of just 25. With turnovers numbering at 23 and an assists turnover ratio of only 0.39, it was clear that ball handling and shot selection were issues that needed immediate attention.


However, not all is grim for MINN fans. Despite their recent loss, there's evidence within past performances that suggest potential for an upset in Lincoln. During their game against Michigan State Spartans on February 5th, although defeated with a score of 65-76, MINN showed glimpses of brilliance with a field goal percentage improvement to 48 percent and points in paint totaling an impressive 38.


Jan 14, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers guard Mara Braun (10) shoots as Nebraska Cornhuskers forward Annika Stewart (21) and guard Jaz Shelley (1) defend during the first half at Williams Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

Furthermore, when facing Penn State Lady Lions on February 1st where they scored a respectable total of points at home – despite falling short by just under Penn State's score – MINN demonstrated tenacity in rebounding with both offensive and defensive rebounds totaling up to significant numbers.


The key takeaway from these past games is that while consistency has been elusive for MINN this season; they have shown they can compete offensively when they find rhythm in their game plan.


Jan 14, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers guard Mara Braun (10) works around Nebraska Cornhuskers guard Jaz Shelley (1) during the first half at Williams Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead to NEB's home court advantage at Pinnacle Bank Arena might intimidate some teams but it could also be seen as an opportunity for MINN to prove themselves as contenders rather than pretenders in this league. To secure victory away from home will require them tightening up defense against fast breaks (where NEB excels), improving ball security dramatically (reducing turnovers), and maintaining or exceeding their better shooting percentages seen during moments throughout this month’s performances.


With tip-off scheduled for late afternoon at precisely four o'clock PM Central Time Zone (CT), Golden Gopher supporters should mark their calendars eagerly but cautiously optimistic about what could unfold on court come game day. Fans unable or unwilling to brave potential winter weather conditions have options available; tuning into live broadcasts will ensure not missing any action as these two teams battle it out come Saturday afternoon.

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