The Gophers' Hope Brandner was chosen the Big Ten Player of the Week in softball for the second time this season, the conference announced Monday.

Brandner had a 1.625 slugging percentage in a three-game series against Illinois, with a home run in each game and six RBI. She launched an eighth-inning go-ahead home run in Game 2 of the series and opened Game 3 with a home run in the first inning, leading the Gophers to a 10-3 victory.

The sophomore first baseman went 4-for-8 on the weekend, with four walks for an on-base percentage of .667.

Brandner has six home runs and 15 RBI in the Big Ten and a 1.458 slugging percentage in nine conference games.

Honors for 2 Loons

Minnesota United defender Ike Opara and goalkeeper Vito Mannone were named to Major League Soccer's team of the week for their play in a 2-1 road victory over the New York Red Bulls.

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