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/ Women's Basketball
Meet the Newcomers: Natalie Kussow
7/29/2026 11:28:00 AM | Women's Basketball
Get to know freshman Natalie Kussow!
A driven freshman, Natalie Kussow comes from a sports-loving family and capped off her high school career with a Wisconsin state title. Kussow looks up to lefties like Kelsey Plum, bringing selflessness and a love for a fast-paced game. Out of Arrowhead High School, she chose Minnesota for its team culture and is ready to wear the Maroon & Gold.
Gopher Sports: Can you take me through your background?
Natalie Kussow: "I grew up with an older brother who is about 18 months older than me. We were incredibly competitive and spent a lot of time playing 1v1 basketball against each other. My parents have always been amazing and highly supportive of both of us."
GS: You come from quite an athletic family. Can you share a bit about your brother's sports journey?
NK: "My brother actually committed to play baseball at Louisville originally, but he ended up getting drafted by the New York Mets last summer. Right now, he's down in Florida playing baseball."
GS: When did you really start to improve and realize that you had a future in basketball?
NK: "I'd say it was around the 8th grade. I attended a few summer basketball camps, and it just clicked for me that if I kept working hard, I could truly have a future in this sport."
GS: You had an incredible high school career. What were some of the highlight moments for you before coming to Minnesota?
NK: "The absolute best part was winning a state championship during my senior year."
GS: What were the biggest factors that ultimately made you choose the University of Minnesota?
NK: "For me, it came down to the team culture and the coaching staff. I don't consider myself the most outgoing person, but during my recruiting visits, the team made me feel incredibly welcome. My very first visit was around spring break when Coach P had just moved in after being hired. Even though she had just started the job and had a million things going on, she made intentional time for me. That meant a lot."
GS: You've only been on campus for a short time. What has the transition been like so far?
NK: "I've only been here for a few weeks, but it's been so much fun! Transitioning to city life has been an exciting change."
GS: For someone who has never seen you play before, how would you describe your playing style?
NK: "I love a fast-paced game. I really pride myself on playing hard on both ends of the floor, focusing on defense just as much as offense."
GS: Is there a specific player you look up to?
NK: "Kelsey Plum. She's an amazing player in the WNBA, and it's always fun to watch another lefty."
GS: What are your biggest takeaways from your first few weeks of college practice?
NK: "I love how selfless this team is. The upperclassmen have been so encouraging and helpful. As a freshman, it can be overwhelming, but I'm just trying to stay confident and remind myself that I am here for a reason."
GS: How excited are you to step out onto the court at The Barn this season?
NK: "I can't wait! I actually came to the Green Bay game last season, and seeing The Barn packed with such incredible fan support was amazing. I'm so excited to play in front of that crowd."
Rapid Fire with Natalie Kussow
Go-to pre-game snack: Goldfish or popcorn
Favorite sweet treat: Ice cream
What sport would you play if not basketball: Volleyball
Favorite pro sports team: Milwaukee Bucks
Favorite athlete: Steph Curry
Biggest inspiration: My parents
Favorite TV show: Ginny & Georgia.
Musical artists on repeat: Lots of country music, especially Morgan Wallen and Megan Moroney
Dream vacation spot: Somewhere in Europe, specifically Italy or Greece
Gopher Sports: Can you take me through your background?
Natalie Kussow: "I grew up with an older brother who is about 18 months older than me. We were incredibly competitive and spent a lot of time playing 1v1 basketball against each other. My parents have always been amazing and highly supportive of both of us."
GS: You come from quite an athletic family. Can you share a bit about your brother's sports journey?
NK: "My brother actually committed to play baseball at Louisville originally, but he ended up getting drafted by the New York Mets last summer. Right now, he's down in Florida playing baseball."
GS: When did you really start to improve and realize that you had a future in basketball?
NK: "I'd say it was around the 8th grade. I attended a few summer basketball camps, and it just clicked for me that if I kept working hard, I could truly have a future in this sport."
GS: You had an incredible high school career. What were some of the highlight moments for you before coming to Minnesota?
NK: "The absolute best part was winning a state championship during my senior year."
GS: What were the biggest factors that ultimately made you choose the University of Minnesota?
NK: "For me, it came down to the team culture and the coaching staff. I don't consider myself the most outgoing person, but during my recruiting visits, the team made me feel incredibly welcome. My very first visit was around spring break when Coach P had just moved in after being hired. Even though she had just started the job and had a million things going on, she made intentional time for me. That meant a lot."
GS: You've only been on campus for a short time. What has the transition been like so far?
NK: "I've only been here for a few weeks, but it's been so much fun! Transitioning to city life has been an exciting change."
GS: For someone who has never seen you play before, how would you describe your playing style?
NK: "I love a fast-paced game. I really pride myself on playing hard on both ends of the floor, focusing on defense just as much as offense."
GS: Is there a specific player you look up to?
NK: "Kelsey Plum. She's an amazing player in the WNBA, and it's always fun to watch another lefty."
GS: What are your biggest takeaways from your first few weeks of college practice?
NK: "I love how selfless this team is. The upperclassmen have been so encouraging and helpful. As a freshman, it can be overwhelming, but I'm just trying to stay confident and remind myself that I am here for a reason."
GS: How excited are you to step out onto the court at The Barn this season?
NK: "I can't wait! I actually came to the Green Bay game last season, and seeing The Barn packed with such incredible fan support was amazing. I'm so excited to play in front of that crowd."
Rapid Fire with Natalie Kussow
Go-to pre-game snack: Goldfish or popcorn
Favorite sweet treat: Ice cream
What sport would you play if not basketball: Volleyball
Favorite pro sports team: Milwaukee Bucks
Favorite athlete: Steph Curry
Biggest inspiration: My parents
Favorite TV show: Ginny & Georgia.
Musical artists on repeat: Lots of country music, especially Morgan Wallen and Megan Moroney
Dream vacation spot: Somewhere in Europe, specifically Italy or Greece
Wednesday, July 08
Friday, July 03
Monday, June 22
Thursday, June 18