Preview: The Gophers (9-7, 0-3 Big Ten) will seek their first conference victory after opening the schedule with losses to the teams picked to finish first (Maryland), second (Ohio State) and third (Indiana). They have won their past eight games against Wisconsin, their longest win streak in the series' history. Under first-year coach Jonathan Tsipis, the Badgers (5-10, 0-2) started the Big Ten season with losses to Michigan and at Rutgers and are the lowest-scoring team in Big Ten play (54 points per game).

Players to watch: Gophers guard Kenisha Bell scored 23 points Wednesday against Indiana and is second on the team in scoring (17.3 points per game). Center Bryanna Fernstrom leads the team in rebounding (9.3 per game). Junior guard Cayla McMorris of Brooklyn Park (Park Center) is the Badgers' top scorer (14.7). Two freshmen from Minnesota also are contributing: guard Suzanne Gilreath (Fridley) averages 6.3 points off the bench, and forward Courtney Fredrickson (Minnetonka) averages 5.8 points and 4.3 rebounds.

Numbers: Wisconsin has committed 20 or more turnovers in six games this season.

RACHEL BLOUNT