Texas, Michigan Clash in Elite Eight Showdown

Longhorns and Wolverines battle for Final Four berth

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:05pm

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A cubist, geometric painting featuring overlapping planes of bright orange and blue, capturing the energy and intensity of a women's basketball game between two top teams.Two elite women's basketball programs collide in an intense, high-stakes battle for a Final Four berth.Fort Worth Today

The No. 1 Texas Longhorns and No. 2 Michigan Wolverines face off in the Elite Eight of the 2026 women's NCAA basketball tournament. Both teams boast star-studded rosters and high-powered offenses, setting the stage for an epic showdown with a Final Four spot on the line.

Why it matters

The Longhorns are seeking their first national championship in 40 years, while the Wolverines have never won a title. This matchup features two of the top teams in the country, with the winner advancing to the Final Four in Phoenix.

The details

Texas and Michigan have remarkably similar statistical profiles, both ranking in the top 10 nationally in scoring, assists, steals, and rebounding. The Longhorns are led by their 'Big Three' of Madison Booker, Rori Harmon, and Jordan Lee, while the Wolverines counter with their own trio of stars in Syla Swords, Olivia Olson, and Mila Holloway. Both teams emphasize relentless defense and fast-paced, unselfish offense.

  • The Elite Eight matchup tips off on Monday, April 1 at 7 p.m. ET in Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas.
  • The Final Four begins on April 3 in Phoenix, Arizona.

The players

Texas Longhorns

The No. 1 seed in the tournament, seeking their first national championship in 40 years.

Michigan Wolverines

The No. 2 seed, making their first Elite Eight appearance since 2022 and looking to win their first-ever national title.

Madison Booker

Texas' star forward, known for her lethal pull-up jumper and scoring ability.

Rori Harmon

Texas' dynamic point guard who excels on both ends of the floor.

Syla Swords

Michigan's versatile guard who can score in a variety of ways.

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What they’re saying

“You understand the urgency that you have to have, the focus and the discipline that you have, and the connectivity and chemistry that you have to have with your teammates at this moment, because any game could be your last game.”

— Rori Harmon, Texas guard

“You had to be a contender before you were a champion. You know, you had to be there before you were on the other side.”

— Kim Barnes Arico, Michigan head coach

“Anybody on our roster can go off and have an exciting game.”

— Syla Swords, Michigan guard

What’s next

The winner of the Texas-Michigan matchup will advance to the Final Four in Phoenix, Arizona on April 3.

The takeaway

This Elite Eight showdown features two of the top teams in the country, with the winner earning a coveted spot in the Final Four. Both the Longhorns and Wolverines have the talent and experience to make a championship run, setting the stage for an epic battle between two powerhouse programs.