MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota coach Dawn Plitzuweit has welcomed an infusion of new talent and agreed to a new contract.

After guiding the Gophers last season to the Sweet 16, their first such appearance in 21 years, Plitzuweit and the program are clearly on the rise in the rugged Big Ten.

“She deserves it. She does so much for the program and just the community in general, putting her best foot forward every day,” star guard Mara Braun said. “It doesn’t matter what time of day you see her, she’s always got the same energy.”

The Gophers convened this week for summer practice. Plitzuweit agreed last week to a contract amendment that gives her a $200,000 raise for a $1.1 million salary this season that ranks ninth in the conference. The new deal also comes with annual $30,000 increases and an additional year — through the 2031-32 season — that was automatically tacked on when the team made the NCAA Tournament due to a previous provision.

The Gophers went 24-9 in 2025-26 and made the NCAA Tournament for the first time in eight years.

“It’s a blessing to be at the University of Minnesota, and so to have that opportunity to continue coaching is something I’m really excited about,” Plitzuweit said after practice Wednesday.

The Sweet 16 banner has already been hung in the practice gym, serving as a constant source of motivation.