Minnesota women overcome Harvard surge to win season opener

The game remained tight until the final 10 minutes, when No. 17 Minnesota executed a 12-0 run to secure an 82-62 victory over Harvard on Monday. This season-opener for both programs featured a tense third quarter, but the Golden Gophers found their rhythm only after the break.

Gracie Merkle led the Gophers with 22 points, converting 10 of her 11 shots. Grace Grocholski contributed 20 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Tayla Thomas recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds. These three players kept Minnesota competitive while Harvard’s offense stalled in the final stretch.

Harvard’s Sam Wills finished with 20 points on 8-of-8 shooting, including four three-pointers. Olivia Jones added 14 points, and Karlee White contributed 11 points. White struggled from long range, hitting only one of her 12 three-point attempts. The Crimson led 52-51 after Grocholski’s three-pointer gave Minnesota a 54-52 lead entering the fourth quarter.

The fourth quarter defined the outcome. Minnesota outscored Harvard 28-10 during this period. The visitors shot 4-for-16 from the field and committed seven turnovers. In contrast, the Golden Gophers made 9 of 16 field goal attempts, 10 of 11 free throws, and did not turn the ball over. Starter Natalie Kussow scored all nine of her points in this final frame.

Both teams return to action this week. Harvard hosts Boston College on Friday. Minnesota travels to Marquette on Saturday.