Emerging
Published Jun 17, 2026Updated Jun 181
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Minnesota Women's Basketball Coach Plitzuweit Gets Raise After Sweet 16 Success
Minnesota women's basketball coach Dawn Plitzuweit received a $200,000 raise and contract extension through 2031-32 after guiding the Gophers to the Sweet 16 last season, their first such appearance in 21 years. The program is rebuilding with seven newcomers and notable recruits including Wisconsin's top-ranked guard Natalie Kussow and Minnesota's all-time high school leading scorer Tori Oehrlein.
Quick Facts
- Coach received contract amendment with $200,000 raise
- Gophers reached Sweet 16, first in 21 years
- NCAA Tournament appearance after 8-year drought
- Seven newcomers integrated into roster
- Athletic director received new contract extension
Minnesota women's basketball coach Dawn Plitzuweit has agreed to a contract extension with a $200,000 raise following the program's breakthrough season. The amendment increases her salary to $1.1 million this season, ranking ninth in the Big Ten Conference, and includes annual $30,000 increases through the 2031-32 season. An additional contract year was automatically triggered when the Gophers made the NCAA Tournament due to a previous provision.
The Gophers reached the Sweet 16 last season—their first appearance in 21 years—after posting a 24-9 record and making the NCAA Tournament for the first time in eight years. Plitzuweit, now in her fourth season at Minnesota with a 69-36 record, said the opportunity to continue coaching is "a blessing." Star guard Mara Braun praised the coach's consistent energy and commitment to the program and community.
The program is integrating significant new talent as it aims to build on last season's success. Returning starters Mara Braun, Grace Grocholski, and Tori McKinney lead a roster that includes five other returning players and seven newcomers. Notable additions include top-ranked Wisconsin recruit Natalie Kussow and Tori Oehrlein, Minnesota's all-time high school leading scorer, both in a four-player freshman class. Transfer portal signing Tayla Thomas, a junior forward from Northwestern who led her team in rebounds and blocks, anchors three transfer arrivals.
Plitzuweit emphasized the team's strong bonding and eagerness to improve. "I think we're bonding at a really high level. I think our ability to learn is very high. I think their desire to be really good is something that is special," she said after practice. The Sweet 16 banner hung in the practice gym serves as constant motivation as the program targets further NCAA Tournament success.
The contract extensions were part of broader moves by the University of Minnesota. Athletic director Mark Coyle also received a two-year extension through 2031-32 with $100,000 annual raises from his $2 million base salary, plus potential longevity bonuses totaling more than $2.5 million annually. Additionally, the university finalized a 10-year naming rights agreement for Williams Arena, which will now be called "The Barn by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota" as the men's program prepares to begin its 100th season at the historic venue.
Why This Matters
The contract extension reflects Minnesota's commitment to women's basketball excellence after breaking an 21-year NCAA Tournament drought. For supporters and recruits, it signals program stability and investment, making the Gophers a more attractive destination. The integration of top-tier talent like Natalie Kussow and Tori Oehrlein suggests the program is positioned for sustained success, potentially reshaping the Big Ten competitive landscape and providing local young athletes role models in their home state.