SPORTS

Michigan routs NC State, advances to women's Sweet 16

PUBLISHED Mar 22, 2026, 4:22 PM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 6

Center 100%

Sources: 6

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — On Sunday, Michigan defeated N.C. State 92-63 at Crisler Center as Olivia Olson scored 27 second-half points and Syla Swords added 26, propelling the second-seeded Wolverines into the women's NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 after forcing 22 Wolfpack turnovers. The Wolverines (27-6) converted turnovers into a decisive lead, entering the fourth quarter ahead by 16; Michigan will play the winner of Louisville vs. Alabama in the Fort Worth Regional semifinal on Saturday, with game time to be determined and team momentum increasing.

By Noormahi M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Friday: N.C. State beats Tennessee; Zoe Brooks injures her foot and is limited afterward.
Saturday: Brooks is held out of practice as staff assess availability for Michigan game.
Sunday morning: Brooks is ruled out; she watches the game courtside in a protective boot.
Sunday afternoon/evening: Michigan forces 22 turnovers and wins 92-63, Olson scores 27 in second half.
Following Sunday: Michigan advances to Sweet 16; next opponent is winner of Louisville vs. Alabama, scheduled Saturday.

News Intelligence

If you're a fan of women's basketball, this game was a masterclass in turning defense into offense. Michigan's strategy of forcing turnovers paid off big. It's a reminder that in sports, as in life, sometimes the best offense is a good defense.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Michigan's women's basketball program, coaches, and players benefited from the win, advancing to the Sweet 16 and gaining momentum, higher visibility, and stronger tournament positioning.

Who Impacted

N.C. State, its coaching staff and roster, suffered from the absence of All-ACC guard Zoe Brooks, which contributed to turnovers and the team's elimination from the tournament.