Minneapolis, MN – The Green Bay Phoenix place up a strong fight, leading for three quarters, but ultimately fell to the Minnesota Gophers 75-58 in the first round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament on Friday. The game showcased Green Bay’s tenacity, despite the final result, and marked a significant moment for the Horizon League champions.
The 13th-seeded Phoenix, seeking their first NCAA Tournament victory since 2012, demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the contest. Green Bay’s ability to maintain a lead through the first three quarters highlighted their competitive spirit. However, a decisive 16-0 run by the Gophers in the fourth quarter proved to be the turning point, securing Minnesota’s advancement in the tournament. The University of Minnesota Athletics confirmed the victory.
Phoenix Present Tenacity Despite Loss
Green Bay head coach Kayla Karius praised her team’s performance, emphasizing their growth and belief in their ability to compete. “This group showed that even in a short amount of time, and even with all the newcomers we had, that they’re a Green Bay team, that they get it, they understand what a Green Bay player does, a Green Bay player steps onto any floor and believes she can win,” Karius said. The Phoenix’s performance underscored their commitment to the program and their willingness to challenge themselves against top competition.
Horizon League Player of the Year, Jenna Guyer, finished with 5 points against her home-state Gophers. A three-pointer from Guyer gave Green Bay their largest lead of the second half, extending it to 43-34. Despite the loss, Guyer expressed pride in her team’s effort. “We just proved our tenacity. We are not as scared of who we play. Doesn’t matter who, what name is across the other jersey. I think I’m just really proud of the girls,” she stated.
Skorupski Shines in Tournament Debut
Senior transfer Maddy Skorupski led the Phoenix in scoring with 19 points, including a crucial basket at the buzzer to end the first half. Skorupski described the experience as a dream come true. “It’s just a dream come true, watching, you know, March Madness with my brother and my family for, you know, ever so you know, basketball family. But just to have the opportunity to have this experience, not everyone has it, and transferring in that’s what I wanted, and to be able to do it’s really cool,” Skorupski said. Her performance highlighted the impact of experienced players in high-pressure tournament situations.
The game was a testament to Green Bay’s progress under Karius, and the team’s ability to compete with a Big Ten opponent. While the Phoenix season ends with a record of [unconfirmed record], their performance in the NCAA Tournament provided valuable experience and a foundation for future success. The Daily Gopher provided a live thread for fans following the game.
Looking Ahead
The Green Bay Phoenix will now focus on the offseason and preparing for the next season. The experience gained in the NCAA Tournament will undoubtedly be valuable as they strive to return to the tournament and develop a deeper run. The program’s continued development under Coach Karius promises an exciting future for Green Bay women’s basketball.
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