For the second year in a row, the Michigan women's basketball team has won an NCAA Tournament game.
The Wolverines nearly got a triple-double from sophomore point guard Mila Holloway, who connected on five 3-pointers, scored 20 points, dished out seven assists, and grabbed eight rebounds as Michigan women's basketball destroyed Holy Cross 83-48.
Mila Holloway stands out for Michigan women's basketball
Holloway continues to grow as a player for the Wolverines. This was the latest example of that. She's often overshadowed by First-Team All-Big Ten performers, Olivia Olson and Syla Swords. Yet, it's getting harder and harder to overlook the dynamic playmaker, who has also become a reliable scorer.
In the first quarter, the Wolverines set the tone with 27 points. They had a 21-point advantage before the second stanza even started. From there, it was more of a question of what the final margin would be.
It shouldn't come as a surprise that the Wolverines won the game. They are seeded second in their region, which is the best seed in the history of Michigan women's basketball. The 26th win, clinched on Friday in Ann Arbor, is the second-most in program history.
If the Wolverines win on Sunday, against either North Carolina State or Tennessee, it will be just the third trip to the Sweet 16 in program history. Michigan was beaten handily by Notre Dame in the round of 32 last season. That was a learning experience for this team.
Now, the Wolverines are better for it. They feel like they are good enough to maybe reach the Final Four, or at least play in a game to reach the Final Four. Anything short of that will feel disappointing.
Friday's win was another sign of progress. Sunday will be another, and judging by how the Wolverines played in their first NCAA Tournament game this season, they are ready for it.