Michigan and MSU women’s NCAA tournament previews…

The 2025 NCAA Tournament is shaping up to be a thrilling one for Michigan and Michigan State women’s basketball, with both teams entering the tournament after impressive seasons. This marks a significant achievement for both programs, as they seek to make a deep run in March Madness. Michigan and Michigan State are not only hoping to bring pride to their respective universities, but they also aim to make a strong statement about the state of women’s basketball in Michigan. Both teams have had strong seasons, showcasing talent, resilience, and the potential to compete at the highest levels of college basketball.

Michigan State’s women’s basketball team, under the leadership of second-year head coach Robyn Fralick, has turned a corner this season. With a 21-9 record, the Spartans have had an impressive campaign, highlighted by their commitment to defense, which has been the hallmark of Fralick’s coaching philosophy. The Spartans have been particularly strong on the defensive end, suffocating opposing offenses with their press and ball pressure. This defensive identity has allowed Michigan State to stay competitive in every game, even against some of the most talented teams in the nation.

Offensively, the Spartans have found balance, with players like guard Makayla Johnson playing a pivotal role in their success. Johnson has been a consistent scorer and leader for the team, contributing in multiple areas on the court. Her ability to score both from the perimeter and in the paint has made her a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. The Spartans also have a deep roster with several players contributing in significant ways, making them a difficult team to game plan against. Their balanced attack, coupled with their defense, has made Michigan State one of the more complete teams in the NCAA this season.

The Spartans will face Harvard in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, a game that presents an interesting challenge for Michigan State. While Harvard may not be as well-known as some of the other top programs, they have earned their spot in the tournament and have the potential to pull off an upset. Harvard is a disciplined team with a strong defensive foundation, so Michigan State will need to play their brand of basketball to advance. If the Spartans can maintain their defensive pressure and execute offensively, they should be able to secure a victory in their opening game.

Looking ahead, Michigan State has the potential to make a deep run in the tournament. If they continue to defend at a high level and get contributions from all areas of their team, they could challenge some of the higher-seeded teams. Coach Fralick’s focus on building a cohesive and tough-minded team has paid off, and Michigan State has the ability to compete with anyone in the tournament. The Spartans will need to stay focused on the fundamentals and play their best basketball of the season if they want to make a deep tournament run.

Meanwhile, the University of Michigan women’s basketball team is also entering the NCAA Tournament with high expectations. With a 23-7 record, Michigan has had another stellar season under the direction of head coach Kim Barnes Arico. The Wolverines have been one of the top teams in the Big Ten, consistently competing with the best programs in the country. Michigan’s ability to combine offensive firepower with strong defensive play has made them one of the more well-rounded teams in the tournament field.

At the heart of Michigan’s success has been Leigha Brown, one of the most dynamic players in college basketball. Brown, a senior guard, has been the driving force behind Michigan’s offensive attack, and her scoring ability has been a major asset for the Wolverines. Whether she’s scoring from long range or driving to the basket, Brown has been able to create opportunities for herself and her teammates. Her leadership has been critical for Michigan, particularly during high-pressure moments throughout the season.

In addition to Brown, Michigan boasts a deep and talented roster, with several players capable of stepping up in big moments. Players like Emily Kiser and Laila Phelia have provided significant contributions on both ends of the floor, adding depth and versatility to the Wolverines’ game. The combination of experienced upperclassmen and talented underclassmen has given Michigan a balanced lineup capable of competing at the highest level. Michigan’s fast-paced style of play, paired with their tenacious defense, has made them a difficult team to handle, and they have proven time and again that they can compete with anyone.

Michigan enters the NCAA Tournament as a 5th seed, which puts them in a strong position to make a deep run. Their first-round matchup will be crucial, as they will look to establish themselves early in the tournament. Michigan has advanced to the Sweet 16 in the past, and the Wolverines are determined to go even further this time around. With the leadership of Brown and the solid contributions of their supporting cast, Michigan has the tools to make a deep tournament run.

Both Michigan and Michigan State have been playing at a high level this season, and their appearances in the 2025 NCAA Tournament are a testament to the strength of women’s basketball in the state of Michigan. Each team has its unique strengths, but both have the potential to compete with the best teams in the nation. With strong coaching, talented rosters, and a collective desire to succeed, Michigan and Michigan State are both poised to make noise in the NCAA Tournament. Whether they face off in a potential matchup down the road or blaze their own paths, one thing is clear: the women’s basketball scene in Michigan is on the rise.