Minnesota and Northwestern face off in a crucial Big Ten clash as both teams aim for their first conference win.

Minnesota and Northwestern prepare for a pivotal Big Ten matchup as both teams enter conference play with renewed focus after the start of 2026. The Golden Gophers, riding a three-game win streak including a 60-43 victory over Fairleigh Dickinson, are led by Cade Tyson (21.9 ppg) and Jaylen Crocker-Johnson (13.2 ppg, 7.5 rpg), though coach Niko Medved stressed the need for improved consistency. Northwestern, seeking its first Big Ten win after losses to Wisconsin and Ohio State, rebounded with an 80-60 win over Howard. The Wildcats, led by top scorer Nick Martinelli (22.8 ppg), are without Arrinten Page, who missed the Howard game due to team rules. Both coaches emphasized the game’s importance for their season’s trajectory in a competitive conference.