The No. 13 Michigan Wolverines women’s basketball team is gearing up for the upcoming 2025-26 season with notable changes and renewed optimism. Unlike last year, when the team faced uncertainty due to the departure of nine players, this season brings a stronger foundation with several returning key players. The Wolverines are looking to build on their previous successes, having finished 22nd nationally according to Bart Torvik, and are projected to rank 11th in preseason forecasts.
Returning Stars and New Additions
Last season, Michigan had only four returning players, including guards Jordan Hobbs and Greta Kampschroeder. This year, they welcome back a robust trio of sophomores: Olivia Olson, Syla Swords, and Mila Holloway, who are expected to play pivotal roles. Alongside them are senior forward Alyssa Crockett and junior guard Macy Brown, who bring experience and leadership to the team.
Michigan coach Kim Barnes Arico expressed her enthusiasm during Media Day, highlighting the buzz surrounding the program. “We have three starters returning from last year. Coming into the season (last year), there was a lot of unknown. We only had four players returning in the entire program. So this year, it is a little bit different,” she stated. This season’s lineup promises a blend of talent and consistency as the Wolverines aim to improve upon last year’s results.
Leadership and Chemistry on the Court
The returning sophomore trio had an impressive debut season, and expectations have escalated for them this year. Olson garnered the Co-Big Ten Freshman of the Year award and made both the All-Big Ten Freshman Team and the All-Big Ten Second Team. Swords earned similar recognition, earning spots on the All-Big Ten Freshman and Second Team, while Holloway received an honorable mention.
Coach Barnes Arico is counting on Olson, Swords, and Holloway to step into more prominent leadership roles. “When you talk about leadership, and when you talk about who we are as a program, they don’t feel like they are who they are without Mila Holloway,” she noted. The trio is critical to the team’s success, with each player contributing uniquely: Olson led in scoring, Swords in rebounds, and Holloway in assists last season.
Over the summer, Olson focused on enhancing her skills, while Swords and Holloway gained valuable experience competing for Team Canada at the U19 World Cup in Czechia. Holloway emphasized the importance of Swords in their success, stating, “She kind of lights up every room she steps in… just having her on the floor with you makes everything easier.”
As the Michigan Wolverines prepare for this season, the combination of returning talent, new transfers, and the growth of young players sets the stage for an exciting year ahead. With their sights set on improving their national ranking and making a significant impact in the Big Ten, the Wolverines are ready to face the challenges of the 2025-26 season head-on.
