Preview: Minnesota Women’s Basketball Visits Drake on Sunday DES MOINES, Iowa (Interstat) — The Minnesota women’s basketball team, riding a wave of dominant nonconference victories, will look to continue its strong start when it visits the struggling Drake Bulldogs on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, at the Knapp Center. The Golden Gophers (8-3) enter the matchup having won three straight, including an 80-34 rout of Wyoming on Dec. 14 where their defense held an opponent under 40 points for the fifth time this season. Minnesota’s offense is averaging 77.5 points per game, fueled by balanced scoring and efficient play. A key catalyst is guard Mara Braun, who is coming off a 13-point, five-assist performance against Wyoming. Over her last six games, Braun has averaged 11.0 points and 3.2 assists while providing steady backcourt leadership. Drake (2-8) snapped an eight-game losing streak with a 97-77 road win at Indiana State on Dec. 17. The Bulldogs’ offense broke out behind a career-high 21 points and five assists from sophomore guard Abbie Aalsma. Aalsma has been a bright spot, averaging 16.8 points over her last four contests and will be a primary focus for the Drake attack. Despite their record, the Bulldogs have shown offensive capability, scoring 97 and 74 points in two of their last three outings. However, defensive consistency has been an issue, as they allow an average of 78.2 points per game. Minnesota will be heavily favored based on record and recent form, which includes several blowout wins and a narrow double-overtime loss to Maryland. The Golden Gophers have held opponents to 45 points or fewer in five of their eight victories. For Drake, protecting home court and building momentum from the Indiana State win is crucial before Missouri Valley Conference play resumes. Containing Braun and Minnesota’s multifaceted offense will be the Bulldogs’ biggest challenge. Tipoff is set for Sunday afternoon at Knapp Center in Des Moines.