Top-10 Clash Opens New Year as Michigan Visits Washington SEATTLE (Interstat) — A marquee nonconference matchup between two top-10 women’s basketball teams will highlight the New Year’s Day slate as the Michigan Wolverines visit the Washington Huskies on Thursday at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. Both teams carry identical 11-1 records into the holiday showdown, though Washington’s ledger includes two losses overall. The game is organized by the Big Ten, Washington’s new conference home. The Wolverines are riding high after a grueling 92-87 double-overtime road win at Oregon on Monday. Michigan’s offense has been prolific, averaging 86.2 points per game and eclipsing 100 points twice this season. Their lone loss came in November at then-Connecticut by three points. Guard Syla Swords has been instrumental, averaging 16.0 points over her last five games. She logged 46 minutes and scored 18 points in the win at Oregon. Forward Ashley Sofilkanich (16 points) and guard Te’Yala Delfosse (14 points) provided key support. Washington counters with its own potent attack, fresh off a 94-73 rout of Northwestern where the Huskies shot 54% from the field. Forward Avery Howell poured in 23 points in that win and has averaged 14.8 points over her last five contests. She is complemented by a dynamic backcourt of Elle Ladine (23 points vs. Northwestern) and Sayvia Sellers (19 points, 4 assists). The Huskies’ two defeats are narrow: a seven-point loss at Stanford and a nine-point loss at Southern California. Thursday’s contest features a stark contrast in recent scheduling. Michigan concludes a challenging two-game Pacific Northwest trip, while Washington enjoys its fourth consecutive home game. Defensive intensity will be tested. Michigan allows just 57.8 points per game, while Washington holds opponents to 60.2 points on average and 36.8% shooting. The outcome will provide a significant resume boost for either team ahead of the heart of conference play. For Washington, it represents a prime opportunity to announce its arrival in the Big Ten with a statement victory. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. PST Thursday.