Battle sends Minnesota to first Sweet 16 in 21 years

Amaya Battle hit a late baseline jumper to lift Minnesota to a 65-63 win over Ole Miss, sending the Gophers to the women's NCAA Sweet 16 for the first time in 21 years.

Amaya Battle hit a baseline jumper in the closing seconds as Minnesota beat Ole Miss 65-63 to advance to the women's NCAA Sweet 16. It was Minnesota's first trip to the Sweet 16 in 21 years and the game was played at Williams Arena in what was a final home game moment for Battle. She finished with 14 points, 11 rebounds and five assists. The game drew 10,763 fans and was the first tournament game decided by fewer than three points. Game details: - Final score: Minnesota 65, Ole Miss 63. - Amaya Battle recorded 14 points, 11 rebounds and five assists and made the winning shot in the closing seconds. - Mara Braun led Minnesota with 17 points and the crowd was reported as 10,763. - Cotie McMahon scored 15 points on 5-for-6 shooting, picked up her second foul early and was limited to 21 minutes before fouling out with 4:22 remaining. - Minnesota coach Dawn Plitzuweit commented on the outcome, and Ole Miss coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin expressed disappointment with the officiating decisions affecting her star player. Summary: Minnesota advances to the Sweet 16 for the first time in 21 years after a narrow victory decided by Battle's late shot. Undetermined at this time.