ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The Michigan Wolverines are heading back to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, fueled by a dominant second-half performance and the standout play of Syla Swords and Olivia Olson. Michigan routed N.C. State 92-63 on Sunday, securing their place in the Fort Worth Regional semifinals. The victory showcased not only the Wolverines’ offensive firepower but also a stifling defense that proved too much for a Wolfpack team playing without a key starter. This NCAA Tournament run is building momentum for a Michigan team with championship aspirations.
Swords, a Sudbury, Ontario native, finished with 26 points, overcoming a slow start to become a crucial force for Michigan. She was ably supported by Olson, who exploded for all 27 of her points in the second half, turning a close contest into a comfortable win. The Wolverines (27-6) will now face the winner of the matchup between third-seeded Louisville and sixth-seeded Alabama. The Fort Worth Regional promises a challenging path, but Michigan appears well-equipped to navigate it.
The game’s complexion shifted dramatically in the third quarter, where Michigan’s defense forced 10 N.C. State turnovers. This defensive pressure ignited the Wolverines’ offense, allowing them to build a significant lead that the Wolfpack couldn’t overcome. The Wolverines’ ability to capitalize on opponent mistakes has been a hallmark of their success this season. Adding to Michigan’s strong showing was the all-around performance of Canadian guard Mila Holloway, who contributed 13 points, nine rebounds, and six assists.
A Difficult Day for N.C. State
N.C. State (21-11) entered the game facing an uphill battle, missing All-ACC guard Zoe Brooks due to a right foot injury sustained in their previous tournament win against Tennessee. Brooks was seen wearing a protective boot, according to the official N.C. State athletics website. Her absence was keenly felt, particularly in the first half when the Wolfpack managed to stay competitive. Freshman Destiny Lunan stepped into the starting lineup, but struggled with foul trouble, fouling out midway through the fourth quarter after playing just 15 minutes.
Despite the setback, N.C. State showed resilience, leading 13-12 after the first quarter. Zamareya Jones, who had a career-high 30 points against Tennessee, added 16 points for the Wolfpack, even as Khamil Pierre contributed 15 points and nine rebounds. However, the Wolverines’ relentless pressure and offensive efficiency ultimately proved too much to handle.
Swords and Olson Lead the Charge
The second quarter saw Swords come alive, scoring seven quick points as part of a 14-0 run that swung the momentum firmly in Michigan’s favor. While N.C. State battled back to trail by just three points at halftime, the stage was set for Olson’s explosive second-half performance. Olson, a third-team Associated Press All-America player, had been held scoreless in the first half, shooting 0-for-6 from the field. But she quickly found her rhythm in the third quarter, scoring 27 points on a variety of shots, including a three-point play and several mid-range jumpers.
“She just got going,” said Michigan coach Kim Barnes Arico in a post-game interview. “Once she made a couple of shots, she was unstoppable.” Olson’s ability to seize over the game when her team needed her most was a key factor in Michigan’s victory. The combination of Swords’ early burst and Olson’s second-half dominance proved to be a winning formula.
Canadian Contributions Shine
Beyond Swords and Holloway, Michigan’s success is built on a foundation of teamwork, and versatility. Holloway’s well-rounded performance – 13 points, nine rebounds, and six assists – demonstrated her value as a key contributor. The presence of multiple scoring threats makes Michigan a difficult team to defend. The Wolverines’ ability to distribute the ball effectively and capitalize on open looks has been a consistent theme throughout the season.
This is the third time in program history that Michigan has reached the Sweet 16. The Wolverines are looking to build on their previous tournament successes and make a deep run in this year’s competition. Their strong play and balanced attack suggest they have the potential to go far.
Looking Ahead to the Fort Worth Regional
Michigan’s next challenge will be a tough test against either Louisville or Alabama in the Fort Worth Regional semifinals, which commence on Friday. The winner of that game will advance to the Elite Eight. The Wolverines will necessitate to continue their strong defensive play and rely on the scoring prowess of Swords, Olson, and Holloway to advance. The full NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament bracket is available on the NCAA website.
The Wolverines are focused on taking things one game at a time, but their ultimate goal is clear: to reach the Final Four and compete for a national championship. With a talented roster and a determined mindset, Michigan is poised to make a serious run in this year’s tournament.
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