ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The University of Michigan’s women’s basketball team, ranked No. 8, is set to face No. 13 Ohio State in Columbus this Wednesday at 8 p.m. This game marks the end of Michigan’s road schedule for the season and can be watched on Peacock.
Game Insights
Michigan is aiming for its first win in Columbus since a 77-58 victory on January 27, 2022. Under head coach Kim Barnes Arico, the Wolverines have claimed eight of their 17 wins against Ohio State since the 2012-13 season. However, Ohio State holds a significant edge in their all-time matchups, leading 62-17.
This game is critical for Michigan, as they face ranked opponents for the third consecutive game and the fourth time this season. They recently beat No. 13 Michigan State 86-65 but fell to No. 13 Iowa 62-44. The Wolverines’ record against top-25 teams this season is 4-4, with previous losses to teams like No. 1 UConn and No. 2 UCLA.
Recently, Michigan moved up to No. 8 in the Associated Press poll. This marks their 14th consecutive week in the top 10, the longest streak in program history. The previous record lasted six weeks during the 2021-22 season.
On the scoring front, Michigan has three players performing exceptionally well: Olivia Olson (18.9 points per game), Syla Swords (14.2), and Mila Holloway (12.8). The team averages 85 points per game, ranking second in the Big Ten.
In this matchup, two of the league’s top six scorers will be on the court. OSU’s Jaloni Cambridge leads the league with 23.1 points per game, while Olson sits in sixth. Notably, they were named co-Big Ten Freshman of the Year last season.
Defensively, both teams excel in steals and turnover margins. Ohio State leads the Big Ten with 12.3 steals per game, with Michigan close behind at 11.8. Ohio State also tops the league in turnover margin at +8.6, while Michigan is second at +7.8.
Michigan will conclude its regular season on Saturday at home against No. 14 Maryland. Fans can look forward to honoring senior players Alyssa Crockett, Brooke Quarles Daniels, and Ally VanTimmeren before the game. Additionally, Katelynn Flaherty will have her No. 3 jersey celebrated at halftime.
Recent Trends
Basketball fans and analysts have taken to social media to discuss Michigan’s impressive rise in the rankings, highlighting how the team’s performance aligns with the growing competitiveness in women’s college basketball. According to a recent survey by the Women’s Sports Foundation, 65% of sports fans believe that women’s sports have seen increased visibility over the last few years. This trend adds to the excitement surrounding the Wolverines as they head into the final stretch of the season.
For more on women’s basketball trends, check out the Women’s Sports Foundation for up-to-date research and insights.
