Michigan Dominates Holy Cross 83-48 in NCAA Opener

Wolverines Cruise Past Crusaders in NCAA Tournament Debut

ANN ARBOR, MI – The No. 2 seed Michigan Wolverines kicked off their NCAA Tournament journey with a dominant 83-48 victory over the Holy Cross Crusaders. Playing in front of a home crowd at the Chrysler Center, the Wolverines showcased their superior talent and depth, easily advancing past the champions of the Patriot League in the Round of 64.

Michigan entered the postseason with the best regular season in school history, and they showed why they are considered a top contender. The Crusaders, led by their strong senior class and standout player Caitlyn Flanigan, fought hard but were ultimately outmatched by the Wolverines’ relentless pressure and offensive firepower.

Wolverines Establish Control Early

From the opening tip, Michigan looked like the team to beat. Early in the game, Brooke Quarrel’s Daniels made her presence felt with a strong stick-back after a missed shot, showcasing the Wolverines’ ability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities. The team’s ball movement was impressive, leading to open looks and efficient scoring.

Holy Cross, however, proved they wouldn’t back down easily. Caitlyn Flanigan, playing in her 131st career start, demonstrated her scoring ability with a series of well-executed moves, including a smooth pull-up jumper and a crafty finish with her left hand. Sila Sor also showed her prowess as a long-distance shooter, hitting a three-pointer that kept the Crusaders within striking distance.

Michigan’s Defense Shuts Down Holy Cross

Despite some strong plays from Flanigan and Sor, Michigan’s defense proved to be too much. The Wolverines applied pressure for 94 feet, forcing turnovers and limiting the Crusaders’ offensive rhythm. Freshman Kendall Dudley provided a spark off the bench with a crucial rebound and put-back, highlighting the team’s overall strength and contribution from all players.

“Overplaying means up the passing lane. Overplaying trying to deny rebound Dudley stick back and one,” a commentator noted during the broadcast, emphasizing Michigan’s defensive intensity. Even when Holy Cross managed to get good looks, Michigan’s ability to close out possessions and transition quickly often shut down their momentum.

Olson and Holloway Lead the Charge

Olivia Olsson, an Associated Press third-team All-American, began to find her rhythm in the second half. After a few early misses, Olsson hit a crucial shot off the glass to open the third quarter, signaling a turning point. Her ability to score from various spots on the floor, including a smooth jumper from the elbow, helped extend Michigan’s lead.

Guard L insay Holloway was another key player for the Wolverines, showcasing her scoring and playmaking abilities. She hit multiple three-pointers, including a deep bank shot that brought the crowd to its feet. Holloway’s aggressive play and ability to get to the basket, combined with her knack for steals, made her a constant threat on both ends of the court. By the end of the game, she had amassed 20 points.

“Well, Holy Cross has represented well here at the Patriot League as Holloway with another steal. She’s got 17. Looking to pick up THE ASSIST HERE AND ONE against Holloway and she’s going to be reading that and gets a deflection. Nice unselfish play right here.”

Balanced Scoring and Future Implications

Michigan displayed remarkable balance throughout the game, with multiple players contributing significant points. Freshman Asia Wilson impressed with a strong crossover and a left-handed finish, showing flashes of her potential. Sophomores like Kendall Dudley and Del Fos also chipped in with key baskets, including three-pointers, demonstrating the team’s depth.

The Wolverines’ ability to play both full-court pressure defense and execute in the half-court set proved to be a winning combination. As the shot clock wound down in the final seconds, it was clear that Michigan had asserted its dominance. The 83-48 final score reflects a commanding performance that sends a strong message to the rest of the tournament field.

For Holy Cross, the tournament run ends here, but their performance throughout the season and their strong showing in the Patriot League championship highlight a successful year. They showed moments of brilliance and resilience against a top-tier opponent.

Michigan, on the other hand, moves on to the second round with confidence. Their balanced scoring, stifling defense, and overall execution suggest they are a serious contender for the national championship. Fans can expect the Wolverines to continue their strong play as they navigate deeper into the NCAA Tournament.

Source: Round of 64: Holy Cross Crusaders vs. Michigan Wolverines | Full Game Highlights | NCAA Tournament (YouTube)