Mara Braun Shines as Gophers Advance in March Madness, Drawing WNBA Scout Attention
The University of Minnesota women’s basketball team secured a decisive victory over Green Bay, 75-58, in the first round of March Madness, with standout guard Mara Braun delivering an inspired performance. The game, held on March 21, 2026, also drew the attention of WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride, both of the Minnesota Lynx, who were reportedly in attendance as potential scouts.
Braun’s Performance and the Lynx Connection
Braun recorded 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 assist in 40 minutes of play. The presence of Collier and McBride added an extra layer of excitement, and perhaps pressure, for the Gophers. Braun acknowledged feeling nervous knowing the WNBA players were watching, but ultimately rose to the occasion.
“It’s so cool, we love watching them, we really look up to them. When we found out they were going to be here I was just so excited, I’m hoping I can meet Napheesa,” Braun stated in a postgame interview. She emphasized the importance of the support from these role models, noting how meaningful it was for them to capture time to watch the Gophers play.
A Stepping Stone Performance
Even with the possibility of their tournament run ending in the second round, Braun felt the game was a significant moment. “Just the support means so much to us,” she added. The performance wasn’t just about the statistics; it demonstrated Braun’s ability to handle the spotlight and perform under pressure.
Braun’s Season and Career Highlights
Mara Braun, a redshirt junior from Wayzata, Minnesota, has consistently been a key player for the Gophers. In the 2025-26 season, she earned All-Big Ten Honorable Mention recognition. She has shown a knack for scoring, averaging 13.2 points per game in the last 10 regular season games, and achieving a season-high of 22 points at Penn State.
During the 2024-25 season, Braun was named to the Academic All-Big Ten Team and was on the Ann Meyers-Drysdale Shooting Guard of the Year Award watch list. She recorded a career-high eight steals against Vermont, a feat not seen by a Gopher since 1994. As a sophomore in 2023-24, she also received All-Big Ten Honorable Mention honors.
Looking Ahead
Whether the Gophers continue their March Madness journey or not, Braun’s performance against Green Bay was a clear indication of her potential. Her ability to channel nerves into fuel and perform under pressure suggests a bright future, potentially at the professional level. The attention from Collier and McBride could open doors for future opportunities, and this game may be remembered as a pivotal moment in her career.