Michigan women’s basketball could earn 20th win vs. Nebraska

Earlier this season, I wrote a piece on how Michigan women’s basketball could be legendary in the 2022-23 season. While it hasn’t necessarily lived up to “legend” status, the Wolverines find themselves ranked No. 12 in the country with all of their goals ahead of them still.

Nebraska on the clock

Nebraska sits at 14-10 overall with a 6-7 record in conference play. While those aren’t exactly daunting numbers to look at, it’s essential to remember that this is the Big Ten. With good reason, five of the nation’s top-15 teams come from the Big Ten. Every single game is competitive, which goes for middle-of-the-pack teams such as Nebraska as well.

The last time Michigan women’s basketball faced off against Nebraska, the Wolverines came out on top, winning the game 76-59. The game was in hand for all 40 minutes, thanks in large part to the scoring prowess of players such as Leigha Brown, Emily Kiser, Maddie Nolan and Laila Phelia. Each of those players scored 12 or more points, so if they can get going again, Michigan should be able to cruise to yet another win.

Nebraska might not have the star power that Michigan has, but they do have consistency. On the year, the Cornhuskers have five players who average at least 10 points per game. They’re led by guard Jaz Shelley (12.5 points per game), but anyone on the roster can have a big game, no matter the opponent.

Another 20-win season for KBA

Since coach Kim Barnes Arico came over to Ann Arbor to coach Michigan women’s basketball, 20-win seasons have become the usual. Now, she can earn her 10th overall 20-win season with the Wolverines. today versus the Cornhuskers.

With their No. 12 ranking in the current AP poll, the Wolverines are looking for a solid slot in March for the annual March Madness Tournament. Last season, Michigan went on to the Elite Eight for the first time in program history. The season prior, they went to the Sweet 16 for the first time. Things are trending up for this Michigan women’s basketball program, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them make it even further this year.

A lot needs to happen if they want to accomplish any of their big goals for the season. Still, they have the tools necessary to make a big run in February and March. It’s just a matter of what they do with them. In the meantime, they’ll need to continue taking things one game at a time, starting with Nebraska.

The No. 12 Michigan Wolverines (19-5, 9-4) are set to take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers (14-10, 6-7)  today at 1:00 p.m. EST at Crisler Center.

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