The No. 8-ranked University of Michigan women’s basketball team, with a record of 15-2, is set to challenge the undefeated No. 5-ranked Vanderbilt University, boasting an impressive 18-0 record, in the Coretta Scott King Classic. The highly anticipated match will take place on January 19, 2024, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, starting at 14:30 local time. Fans can tune in to watch the game live on Fox.
History and Context of the Matchup
Vanderbilt currently leads the all-time series against Michigan, holding a 3-1 advantage. The Wolverines’ last victory against the Commodores came during the 2008-09 season, adding an extra layer of motivation for Michigan as they look to even the score. This game features two of the nation’s top scoring offenses, with Michigan ranked fifth, averaging 88.6 points per game, while Vanderbilt sits at ninth with 86.9 points per game.
This matchup marks the first of two consecutive games for Michigan in New Jersey, as they will also face Rutgers on January 22. Notably, this game will be a homecoming for Te’Yala Delfosse, who hails from Ewing, and Ashley Sofilkanich, who is from South Amboy, as they don the Michigan jersey for the first time in their home state.
Season Performance and Coach Milestones
Michigan’s current record of 15-2 ties the best start in the program’s history after 17 games. The previous occurrence was during the 2021-22 season, where the team reached a 20-2 record and advanced to the Elite Eight. The Wolverines are coming off a significant 85-69 victory over No. 25 Illinois on January 15, marking the 299th career win for head coach Kim Barnes Arico. One more victory will make her the first coach in Michigan basketball history, men’s or women’s, to reach the 300-win milestone.
This will be Michigan’s second matchup against a top-five opponent this season. They previously faced No. 1 UConn, falling short in a closely contested game, 72-69, at the Basketball Hall of Fame Women’s Showcase on November 19. Historically, Michigan has two top-five wins, both achieved during the 2021-22 season against No. 5 Baylor and No. 5 Indiana.
Currently, Michigan ranks 6th in the NET rankings and has recorded three Quad 1 wins this season, including a comeback victory against Minnesota on January 5, where they rallied from a 12-point deficit to win 70-60.
Olivia Olson has been a standout performer for Michigan, scoring in double figures in all 17 games this season, averaging 18.1 points per game and shooting 47.2%. She has also marked seven 20-point games and is recognized among the top scorers in the Big Ten. Olson’s consistency has earned her a spot on the Wooden Award Midseason Top 25 Watch List.
Syla Swords continues to make her mark on the program, recently hitting three three-pointers in the win against Illinois. This performance adds to her legacy as one of the few players in Michigan history with over 100 career three-pointers. Delfosse, expanding her role in her sophomore season, has also made significant contributions, averaging 11.5 points and leading the team in rebounds.
As the Wolverines prepare for this crucial game against Vanderbilt, they aim not only for a victory but also to solidify their status among the elite teams in women’s college basketball.
