The No. 13 Michigan women’s basketball team is gearing up for the 2025-26 season with a renewed sense of optimism and stability. Following a tumultuous offseason where nine players departed or entered the transfer portal, the Wolverines now boast a strong core of returning starters. Unlike last year, when only four players remained, Michigan features a solid lineup, including sophomore guards Olivia Olson, Syla Swords, and Mila Holloway, alongside experienced leaders like senior forward Alyssa Crockett and junior guard Macy Brown.
Michigan’s coaching staff has worked diligently to refine the team’s structure. The Wolverines concluded the previous season ranked 22nd nationally according to Bart Torvik, with expectations for this season set even higher, projected to finish 11th in the preseason rankings with strengths on offense and defense. Coach Kim Barnes Arico expressed her excitement during Media Day, remarking on the shift in team dynamics: “Going into the year, there seems like there’s a lot of buzz. We have three starters returning from last year. Coming into the season (last year), there was a lot of unknown.”
Returning Stars and New Additions
The Wolverines are welcoming back their sophomore trio, who made significant impacts last season. Olson was named Co-Big Ten Freshman of the Year, also earning spots on the All-Big Ten Freshman Team and the All-Big Ten Second Team. Swords garnered recognition on both the All-Big Ten Freshman and Second Teams, while Holloway received All-Big Ten honorable mention accolades. As returning starters, they now face heightened expectations, with Coach Barnes Arico anticipating their development into leadership roles.
“Even at Big Ten Media Days, Big Ten Network was talking to Syla and Olivia, and they asked about Mila, and I think Syla turned around and said, ‘it just doesn’t feel right, us being here without (Holloway),’” Barnes Arico noted. This sentiment emphasizes the importance of camaraderie and shared leadership among the players. Last season, Olson led the team in points, Swords in rebounds, and Holloway in assists—skills that will be crucial as they aim for success this season.
In preparation for the upcoming challenges, Olson has focused on enhancing her overall game during the offseason. The trio’s bond was further strengthened when Holloway and Swords represented Canada at the U19 World Cup in Czechia. Holloway praised Swords for her impactful presence on the court, stating, “She kind of lights up every room she steps in… So just having her on the floor with you just makes everything easier.”
Building a Strong Foundation
In addition to the returning stars, Michigan has bolstered its roster with two transfers and three freshmen, enhancing the team’s depth. The collaboration among the players, new and returning, aims to cultivate a competitive atmosphere throughout the season. With the foundation laid last year and the addition of fresh talent, the Wolverines are poised to make a significant impact in the Big Ten Conference.
As the team prepares for the season ahead, the focus will be on maintaining consistency and fostering leadership among the players. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talent, the Michigan Wolverines look to build on their previous achievements and contend for a successful season in 2025-26.
