Michigan Sweeps Season Series Against Michigan State

No. 7 Michigan beats No. 13 Michigan State 86-65 behind big games from Syla Swords and Olivia Olson

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The No. 7 Michigan Wolverines defeated the No. 13 Michigan State Spartans 86-65 on Sunday, sweeping the season series between the two in-state rivals. Syla Swords led Michigan with 24 points, while Olivia Olson added 23 points. The Wolverines pulled away in the second quarter, outscoring the Spartans 26-9 in the period. Michigan State's Kennedy Blair scored 21 points in the loss.

Why it matters

This victory solidifies Michigan's standing as one of the top teams in the Big Ten and the country, while Michigan State's recent struggles continue. The rivalry between these two programs is always closely watched, and this season series sweep will only add to the intensity of their matchups going forward.

The details

Michigan took control of the game in the second quarter, going on a 10-0 run sparked by 8 points in 1 minute from Mila Holloway. The Wolverines outscored the Spartans 26-9 in the period to take a commanding lead. Michigan State's Juliann Woodard had to be taken off the court in a wheelchair after an apparent head injury in the fourth quarter.

  • The game was played on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • Michigan won the previous matchup between the two teams 94-91 in overtime two weeks ago.

The players

Syla Swords

The Michigan forward scored a game-high 24 points in the victory.

Olivia Olson

The Michigan guard scored 23 points to complement Swords' performance.

Kennedy Blair

The Michigan State guard led the Spartans with 21 points in the losing effort.

Juliann Woodard

The Michigan State forward had to be taken off the court in a wheelchair after an apparent head injury.

Naz Hillmon

Michigan honored the school's first woman to earn AP All-America honors in 2022 by raising a banner with her name and number to the rafters.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This game showcased the strength of the Michigan women's basketball program, which has emerged as one of the top teams in the Big Ten and the country. The rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State continues to be one of the most closely watched in the conference, and this season series sweep will only add to the intensity of their future matchups.