MSU's Fralick Breaks Down Spartans' Tough Loss to Michigan

The 13th-ranked Spartans forced overtime but couldn't overcome a late run by the 9th-ranked Wolverines

Feb. 1, 2026 at 4:47pm

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Michigan State's women's basketball team fell just short against rival Michigan in a top-15 matchup on Sunday, losing 94-91 in overtime. Despite the setback, MSU head coach Robyn Fralick praised the high-level showcase for women's basketball and the electric atmosphere at the Breslin Center, where a program-record 11,635 fans attended.

Why it matters

The rivalry between Michigan State and Michigan is one of the most intense in college basketball, and this game highlighted the growing popularity and competitiveness of women's basketball. While the Spartans came up short, the game showcased the talent and passion of both programs and the excitement surrounding the sport.

The details

Michigan State forced overtime against the 9th-ranked Wolverines, but a 10-0 run by Michigan in the extra period proved to be the difference. MSU had a chance to win it at the buzzer, but a half-court heave by center Ines Sotelo just rimmed out. Despite the loss, the Spartans are still 19-3 overall and 8-3 in Big Ten play, and are projected to be a 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

  • The game was played on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
  • MSU's Ines Sotelo had made a similar half-court shot earlier this season against DePaul.

The players

Robyn Fralick

The head coach of the Michigan State women's basketball team, who is currently in her third year leading the Spartans.

Ines Sotelo

The Michigan State center who launched a last-second half-court shot that just missed at the end of overtime.

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What they’re saying

“Women's basketball has never been better, and I keep saying it. Our league has never been better. The rivalry [with Michigan] has never been better.”

— Robyn Fralick, Head Coach, Michigan State Women's Basketball

“I thought it was in. She made one just like that at DePaul, and, strangely, she practices that shot. But from my angle, it was like, 'Oh my gosh, I think that's good.'”

— Robyn Fralick, Head Coach, Michigan State Women's Basketball

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.