EAST LANSING ~ Michigan State women’s basketball may look different when the 2026-27 season tips off, but expectations in East Lansing remain high. After a 23-9 season, a national ranking, and a second consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament’s second round, the Spartans enter the new year with a proven culture, emerging stars, and one of the country’s most respected program-builders in head coach Robyn Fralick.
While Michigan State lost standout contributors including WNBA draft pick Grace VanSlooten, Jalyn Brown, and transfer Rashunda Jones, the departures also underscore the program’s growing reputation for developing high-level talent. Fralick has guided the Spartans to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances, produced multiple All-Big Ten performers, and helped elevate players to professional opportunities during one of the most successful stretches in the program’s recent history.
The next wave is already in place. Kennedy Blair returns after emerging as one of Michigan State’s most reliable offensive threats, while veteran guard Theryn Hallock is expected back after injuries limited much of her 2025-26 campaign. Their experience gives the Spartans a strong foundation as new faces step into larger roles.
Among the newcomers, there is plenty of reason for excitement. Freshman Lilly Williams arrives after earning Miss Basketball honors in Michigan, while transfer guard Anna Wypych brings proven collegiate experience and strong perimeter shooting. Fralick’s teams have consistently ranked among the nation’s most efficient offenses, and her recent recruiting classes have strengthened the belief that Michigan State can reload rather than rebuild.
The Spartans will face another challenging Big Ten slate and a strong nonconference schedule, giving fans plenty of opportunities to watch a team blending proven veterans with the program’s next generation of standout talent. As Michigan State begins its pursuit of another NCAA Tournament berth, don’t miss the action throughout the season on WDVD-FM HD2, where WJR will bring listeners courtside for every exciting moment of Spartan women’s basketball.
