Michigan Women's Basketball Routs Michigan State in Rivalry Matchup

Syla Swords and Olivia Olson combine for 47 points in 86-65 victory, the largest win in series history.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The No. 7 Michigan women's basketball team secured a dominant 86-65 victory over No. 13 Michigan State, fueled by a 26-9 second-quarter run. Syla Swords and Olivia Olson combined for 47 points to lead the Wolverines to the largest win in the history of the in-state rivalry.

Why it matters

This win over a ranked conference opponent boosts Michigan's NCAA Tournament resume and cements their status as one of the top teams in the Big Ten. The rivalry between these two programs is always highly anticipated, and this lopsided result will only add to the intensity of future matchups.

The details

Michigan trailed 21-15 after the first quarter, but turned the game around with a dominant second quarter. Led by senior guard Brooke Quarles Daniels, the Wolverines ramped up the defensive pressure, forcing 12 Michigan State turnovers in the period and converting them into 14 points. Swords scored 10 of her 24 points in the second quarter, helping Michigan outscore the Spartans 26-9 to take control of the game.

  • Michigan trailed 21-15 after the first quarter.
  • In the second quarter, Michigan outscored Michigan State 26-9.

The players

Syla Swords

A Michigan forward who scored 24 points, including 10 in the pivotal second quarter.

Olivia Olson

A Michigan guard who scored 23 points, continuing her streak of 20-point games.

Brooke Quarles Daniels

A Michigan senior guard who fueled the team's defensive pressure, forcing 12 Michigan State turnovers in the second quarter.

Kim Barnes Arico

The head coach of the Michigan women's basketball team.

Robyn Fralick

The head coach of the Michigan State women's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“Second quarter, it was wild. ... It was a lot of self-inflicted, just playing a little bit sped up, which we hadn't early. And then that got us just out of rhythm, out of sorts. I mean, you can't turn the ball over that much and be effective. And then in the second quarter, we gave up so many second shots, too, so that makes the game really hard.”

— Robyn Fralick, Michigan State Head Coach (maizenbrew.com)

“This needs to go somewhere, but (Brooke) needs to be on that Defensive Player of the Year list. She is the best defender in the country. She fuels our defense. She allows Liv to pick up full court, allows us to have a rest, because she's picking up the best player anywhere she goes. So she really fuels the way we play, the style of play, the fast pace, the fun pace that comes from Brooke, so her name needs to be heard. She needs to be on any and every list out there.”

— Syla Swords, Michigan Forward (maizenbrew.com)

What’s next

Michigan will look to continue their strong play as they prepare for their next Big Ten matchup, while Michigan State will aim to rebound from this lopsided defeat.

The takeaway

Michigan's dominant performance in this rivalry game showcases their status as one of the top teams in the Big Ten and a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Tournament. The Wolverines' stifling defense and balanced scoring attack proved too much for the Spartans to handle.