Hello Gopher fans,
This week brought us some news from athletics! Men’s basketball head coach Niko Medved signed a contract extension that will keep him on the sidelines through the 2032 season.
Beyond that, it’s starting to finally feel like campus sports are close to returning. Football hosted a media availability this week and a few programs have continued preseason preparations.
While you wait for the fall seasons to officially arrive, catch up on some of our latest coverage, including a look at the trio of Cullens preparing to make an impact with Gopher men’s hockey this season.
Until next time, ski-u-mah,
Samantha Roering | Sports Editor | [email protected]
In the Spotlight
3M Arena at Marriucci, home of the Gophers men’s hockey team, on July 20 in Minneapolis, Minn. | Photo by Samantha Roering, MN Daily
Sons of Stanley Cup champion Matt Cullen prepare to join the Gophers this fall
by Regan Guirguis | Published July 21, 2026
The Cullen brothers have a long history with hockey, dating back to their father, three-time Stanley Cup winner Matt Cullen. Now, the pair will continue that journey with the University of Minnesota, joining the Gophers men’s hockey team this fall.
Matt Cullen played two seasons at St. Cloud State University before continuing his career with 1,516 National Hockey League games. Today, his sons, Wyatt and Brooks, look to further the Cullen name beyond their father’s legacy with their collegiate debuts on the horizon.
From the Bullpen
After a career built in Minnesota, Amaya Battle will head to Italy to play professional basketball
By Regan Guirguis | Sports Reporter
Battle left a legacy in Minnesota and will now look to make an impact for Logiman Broni.
Local celebrity chefs and athletes tackle food insecurity at new Plates and Playmakers charity event
By Alex Elbaz | Arts & Entertainment Reporter
A new chapter of local philanthropy kicks off as Twin Cities culinary icons and sports legends team up against food access in Minnesota.
Gopher hockey sees five off to the PWHL, welcomes Cullen family dynasty
By Samantha Roering | Sports Editor
Also, new NCAA eligibility rule sparks controversy among former Gopher athletes, and the Minnesota Wild face an uncertain roster.
Other news from the Big 10
The Michigan Daily - Warde Manuel to receive $7 million in buyout from Michigan
The Daily Illini - Will Riley is a star in the making
The Daily Iowan - Andrew McKeever making early impact for Iowa men’s basketball
Game-Winning Shots
2026 Special Olympics USA Games kick off with the opening ceremony. | Photo by Henry Creel, MN Daily
Runners compete in a track event during the 2026 Special Olympics. | Photo by Henry Creel, MN Daily
Women’s basketball players celebrate during the 2026 Special Olympics. | Photo by Henry Creel, MN Daily
Upcoming Events
Aug 5 | UMN Soccer @ Iowa State (exhibition)
Aug 8 | UMN Soccer vs. South Dakota State
Aug 10 | UMN Volleyball @ Texas (exhibition)
Aug 13 | UMN Soccer vs. North Dakota
