It is a busy Sunday in the Twin Cities, but if you are looking for the Maroon and Gold on your television screen, there is really only one major headline today. You're probably wondering what channel is the gopher game on today because the schedule can get kinda messy with all the different streaming platforms and cable networks out there.
The big event for Sunday, January 18, 2026, features the Minnesota Gophers women’s basketball team taking on the Washington Huskies. This isn't just a random non-conference filler; it is a significant Big Ten matchup out in Seattle.
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Where to Find the Gophers vs. Washington Tonight
If you are sitting on your couch ready to flip channels, you need to head straight to the Big Ten Network (BTN).
The game is scheduled to tip off at 5:00 p.m. CT. For those living on the East Coast, that’s 6:00 p.m., and for the fans out West where the game is actually being played at Alaska Airlines Arena, it’s a 3:00 p.m. local start.
Honestly, BTN is the most reliable spot for Big Ten fans, but if you've cut the cord, you aren't out of luck. You can stream the game through the Fox Sports app, provided you have a cable login, or use services like Fubo, YouTube TV, or Hulu + Live TV. Just make sure your subscription actually includes the Big Ten Network, as some basic tiers leave it out.
Radio and Audio Options
Maybe you’re driving back from the cabin or just prefer the sound of sneakers squeaking over the radio waves. You can catch the play-by-play on 96.7 KFAN+.
Justin Gaard and Lynnette Sjoquist are the ones on the call for this one. They usually bring a lot of energy, and frankly, sometimes hearing the game is better than seeing the stressful moments on screen. You can also find the stream on the iHeartRadio app if you aren't within range of the local signal.
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Why This Specific Gopher Game Matters
Minnesota enters this game with a 12-5 record. They are 3-3 in the Big Ten.
That might sound middle-of-the-road, but the conference is a gauntlet this year. Coming off a tough loss to UCLA earlier in the week, the Gophers really need a win to keep their momentum. Washington is also sitting at 13-4 and 3-3 in the conference, so this is basically a "swing" game. Whoever wins this moves into the upper half of the standings; the loser starts looking at the bottom.
Players to Watch
- Grace Grocholski: She’s been the engine for the Gophers lately, averaging nearly 14 points a game.
- Amaya Battle: Keep an eye on her rebounding and assists; she’s basically the glue that holds the transition game together.
- Sayvia Sellers (Washington): She is a problem. Averaging over 18 points, the Gophers' defense has to lock her down early or it’s going to be a long flight back to Minneapolis.
What Channel Is The Gopher Game On Today for Other Sports?
You might be confused because the Men's Hockey team played a massive series against Michigan this past Friday and Saturday. If you were hoping for a series finale today, you're out of luck. The Men's Hockey team is off today after their Saturday night clash.
Similarly, the Gopher Men's Basketball team doesn't play until Tuesday, January 20, when they head to Columbus to face Ohio State. So, if you see "Gophers" on a schedule today, it is almost certainly the women's basketball squad out in Seattle.
There is also some tennis happening. The women’s tennis team is hosting Montana State at 10:30 a.m., followed by the men’s team at 3:30 p.m. These aren't on major TV, though. You’ll usually find those on the specific Gopher Sports streaming site if they are broadcast at all.
How to Make Sure You Don't Miss Tip-Off
- Check your BTN signal now: Don't wait until 4:59 p.m. to realize your provider moved the channel to a different tier.
- Sync your apps: If you're using Fubo or YouTube TV, search for "Minnesota Women's Basketball" and hit the "Record" button or "Add to Library."
- Food prep: It’s a 5:00 p.m. start, which is prime dinner time. Get the wings or the hotdish ready by 4:45.
The Gophers are currently 2.5-point underdogs in some circles, mostly because playing at Hec Edmundson Pavilion is notoriously difficult for visiting teams. The altitude isn't the issue—it's the travel and the crowd. But this Minnesota team has shown they can play spoiler, especially when Grocholski finds her rhythm from beyond the arc.
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Actionable Next Step: Open your streaming app or cable guide right now and search for "Big Ten Network" to confirm the 5:00 p.m. CT listing for Minnesota at Washington. If you are planning to listen while on the go, download the iHeartRadio app and favorite the KFAN+ station so it's ready the moment you start the car.