The No. 13 Michigan women’s basketball team is gearing up for the 2025-26 season with a renewed sense of optimism and stability. This comes after a tumultuous previous season where the team faced significant turnover, with nine players either departing or entering the transfer portal. In contrast, Michigan now boasts a solid core of returning players, which includes key guards Olivia Olson, Syla Swords, and Mila Holloway, all of whom played pivotal roles last season.
Coach Kim Barnes Arico expressed her enthusiasm during Michigan Media Day, noting the buzz surrounding the team. “Going into the year, there seems like there’s a lot of buzz,” she said. “We have three starters returning from last year. Coming into the season (last year), there was a lot of unknown.” This year, the Wolverines are expected to perform better, having finished 22nd nationally according to Bart Torvik, and are projected to rank 11th in the preseason, with 16th on offense and 14th on defense.
Returning Talent and New Additions
The Wolverines have managed to retain a significant portion of their talent, with Olson, Swords, and Holloway returning as starters. This trio was part of one of the top recruiting classes in the nation last year and has already made a name for themselves. Olson earned Co-Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors and was selected for both the All-Big Ten Freshman Team and the All-Big Ten Second Team. Swords followed suit with similar accolades, including a spot on the All-Big Ten Tournament Team, while Holloway received an All-Big Ten honorable mention.
With increased expectations this season, Coach Barnes Arico is looking for these sophomores to step into significant 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 pointed out, emphasizing the importance of team cohesion.
Their performance last season was impressive, as Olson led the team in scoring, Swords topped the rebounding charts, and Holloway excelled in assists. As the new season unfolds, the combination of their skills will be crucial for the Wolverines’ success. Olson has focused on enhancing her all-around game during the offseason, while Holloway and Swords further developed their chemistry by competing together for Team Canada at the U19 World Cup in Czechia.
Team Dynamics and Leadership
The camaraderie among the players is evident, highlighted by Holloway’s comments on Swords’ impact on the court. “She kind of lights up every room she steps in,” Holloway stated, underlining Swords’ role as a reliable teammate. “Having her on the floor with you just makes everything easier.” This strong team dynamic will be essential as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
In addition to the returning players, Michigan has bolstered its roster with two transfers and three freshmen, reinforcing the team’s foundation and adding depth. The Wolverines hope that this mix of experience and new talent will lead to a successful season in the competitive landscape of the Big Ten Conference.
As the Michigan women’s basketball team prepares for the 2025-26 season, the focus will be on building on last year’s performance while embracing the expectations that come with returning talent. With a blend of leadership, skill, and determination, the Wolverines are set to make their mark this season.
