# Gopher Athletics
**Source**: https://twin-cities.umn.edu/gopher-athletics
**Parent**: https://twin-cities.umn.edu
Welcome to the Big Ten, sports fans. Big Ten athletics have a way of energizing all students, and while Gopher student-athletes compete at the highest level in their sports, they also regularly rank tops in academics among public institutions. Our athletes are driven, and our fans are driven to support them.
22
Number of sports
3.44+
Average student-athlete GPA (first among public institutions)
600+
Number of student-athletes
22
Number of sports
3.44+
Average student-athlete GPA (first among public institutions)
600+
Number of student-athletes
## Big Time in the Big Ten
[Gopher Sports](https://gophersports.com/)
[Student Tickets](https://gophersports.com/sports/2019/6/26/student-tickets.aspx)
[Schedule](https://gophersports.com/calendar)
## History
From the history of our school colors (maroon and gold), to the creation of cheerleading in 1898 and the birth of the world's most lovable mascot, Goldy Gopher, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities sporting scene enjoys a rich heritage.
[Traditions](https://gophersports.com/sports/2018/5/21/trads.aspx)
[Goldy Gopher Mascot](https://twin-cities.umn.edu/athletics/goldy-gopher)
## News
Feature
### [Gophers to host first two rounds of NCAA tournament](https://twin-cities.umn.edu/news-events/gophers-host-first-two-rounds-ncaa-tournament)
The women’s basketball team is back in the Big Dance as a No. 4 seed, and will open the tournament Friday against Green Bay at Williams Arena.
Feature
### [From dunking to doctorate](https://twin-cities.umn.edu/news-events/dunking-doctorate)
Former Gopher and professional basketball great Willie Burton is back at the University of Minnesota, pursuing his doctorate.
Feature
### [Science at the Winter Olympics](https://twin-cities.umn.edu/news-events/science-winter-olympics)
Three University of Minnesota experts reveal hidden scientific aspects of winter Olympic sports — and the art of staying warm.
[Read More News](https://twin-cities.umn.edu/news-events/topic/sports-recreation)