The No. 6 Michigan women’s basketball team has showcased its dominance during the nonconference season, achieving a remarkable record of 10 wins and only one loss. The Wolverines’ sole defeat came against the top-ranked team in the country, UConn, during the Basketball Hall of Fame Women’s Showcase. Despite trailing by 18 points at halftime, Michigan mounted a strong comeback, outscoring UConn 18-4 in the third quarter. Sophomore guard Syla Swords delivered an impressive performance, scoring 29 points, while teammate Olivia Olson contributed a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds.
As the Wolverines prepare to transition into Big Ten play, their overall statistics highlight their effectiveness on both offense and defense. With a scoring margin of 39 points across 11 games, Michigan has limited opponents to just a 33.1% shooting average from the field. This prowess is evidenced by their ability to surpass the century mark in four separate games, reflecting their scoring capability and defensive tenacity.
Looking Ahead to Conference Challenges
The team’s success has not gone unnoticed, as they rank 8th nationally in adjusted offensive efficiency and 5th in adjusted defensive efficiency, according to data from Bart Torvik. The Wolverines excel at shooting, with a 57.2% success rate from inside the arc, compared to their opponents’ 36.7%. These numbers indicate a well-balanced approach that has allowed Michigan to dominate their competition thus far.
After a decisive 97-54 victory over Oakland, senior forward Alyssa Crockett reflected on the team’s journey and the lessons learned, particularly from the UConn game. “We had some times where we were uncomfortable, and I think that’s a really good opportunity to understand what we need to work on,” she said. With the Big Ten season approaching, Michigan is set to take on formidable opponents, including Washington and Oregon, presenting them with further opportunities to demonstrate their skills.
The Wolverines have established a solid foundation heading into a competitive conference environment, where currently nine teams are ranked within the Big Ten. Their impressive nonconference performance may prove to be a crucial advantage as they navigate the challenges ahead in the pursuit of a successful season.
