INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Minnesota State women's basketball (29-2, 21-1 NSIC) earned the No. 1 seed in the 2026 NCAA Division II Central Region Tournament, as announced during the NCAA Selection Show on Sunday (March 8) evening.

The Mavericks will face No. 8 seed Minnesota Duluth (21-11) in the opening round on Friday, March 13, at 5 p.m. Minnesota State will also serve as the host for the Central Region Tournament, with all games taking place inside the Taylor Center in Mankato, Minn.

This marks the second time in program history that Minnesota State has hosted the Central Region Tournament, with the previous occasion coming during the Mavericks' 2009 National Championship season.

Under head coach Emilee Thiesse, Minnesota State has now advanced to the NCAA Tournament seven times. Overall, this appearance marks the 11th NCAA Tournament berth in program history for the Mavericks, who hold a 17-8 record in NCAA Tournament play. Minnesota State has also captured two National Championships, winning titles in 2009 and 2024.

Tickets for the Central Region Tournament are on sale now online. Additional tickets will also be available at the Taylor Center ticket office beginning 90 minutes prior to the first game each day.