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Amaya Battle's Game-Winner Sends Minnesota to Sweet 16

ESPN General •
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0.7 seconds left, Amaya Battle hit a tiebreaking jump shot to lift Minnesota past Ole Miss 65-63, sending the Gophers to the Sweet 16 for the first time in 21 years.

Battle, the sister of NBA player Jamison Battle, delivered the iconic moment in her final game at Williams Arena, finishing with 14 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists. Minnesota, the No. 4 seed, overcame a late challenge from Cotie McMahon, who fouled out with 15 points on 5-for-6 shooting after a charge draw by Battle with 4:22 remaining. The victory capped a tournament lacking in dramatic finishes, making this buzzer-beater particularly significant.

Coach Dawn Plitzuweit emphasized the team's preparation, stating, 'We practice it almost every day before every game.' Minnesota secured a crucial home-court advantage, which proved decisive in the tightest game of the tournament so far.