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Michigan State Women's Basketball Falls to Rival Michigan in Overtime Thriller
Spartans and Wolverines battle in a showcase of top-tier women's basketball talent
Feb. 1, 2026 at 11:55pm
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In a highly anticipated matchup between two top-25 women's basketball teams, the No. 13 Michigan State Spartans fell to the No. 9 Michigan Wolverines 94-91 in overtime on Sunday afternoon. The game was a display of talent, grit, and athleticism, with the two NCAA Tournament-caliber squads battling it out in front of a boisterous crowd of over 11,600 fans at the Breslin Center in East Lansing.
Why it matters
This rivalry game between the in-state foes is an early-season highlight for women's basketball fans in Michigan. The Spartans and Wolverines are both projected to make the NCAA Tournament, so this overtime thriller provided a preview of the high-level basketball that can be expected when the teams meet again on February 15th at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor.
The details
The Wolverines ultimately outlasted the Spartans in the extra period, but the game was evenly matched throughout. Both teams showcased their offensive firepower, with the Spartans and Wolverines trading baskets and leads throughout regulation. The game came down to the wire, with the Wolverines making the necessary plays in overtime to secure the victory.
- The game was played on Sunday, February 2, 2026.
- The teams will meet again on February 15, 2026 at 4 p.m. in Ann Arbor.
The players
Michigan State Spartans
The No. 13 ranked women's basketball team from Michigan State University, who entered the game with a 19-3 record and 8-3 in Big Ten play.
Michigan Wolverines
The No. 9 ranked women's basketball team from the University of Michigan, who improved to 19-3 overall and 10-1 in the Big Ten with the overtime victory.
What they’re saying
“Fans of women's basketball were treated to quite a display of talent, grit and top-notch athleticism in No. 13 Michigan State's 94-91 overtime loss to No. 9 Michigan on Sunday afternoon.”
— Ricardo Cooney, Writer
What’s next
The Spartans and Wolverines will meet again on February 15, 2026 at 4 p.m. in Ann Arbor, with the game likely to have major implications for both teams' NCAA Tournament seeding.
The takeaway
This rivalry game between two top-25 women's basketball programs showcased the high level of talent and competitiveness in the sport. The overtime thriller provided an exciting early-season preview of the type of postseason-caliber basketball that fans in Michigan can look forward to when these two teams meet again later in the season.
