Who is Syla Swords? What to know about Michigan freshman basketball star
The women's college basketball season has tipped off and is in full swing, and the Michigan Wolverines have a promising new standout player who is making her mark on the court.
Canadian Olympic athlete and Michigan freshman guard Syla Swords made a significant mark in the Wolverines' season opener against the defending champions, the top-ranked South Carolina Gamecocks. Swords remarkable performance, which included 27 points and 12 rebounds, was a standout despite the Wolverines' 68-62 loss.
The Wolverines, showing their strength, followed up their tough loss and came out with a dominant 86-55 win against Lehigh Mountain. Once again, Swords led the Wolverines in scoring, with 20 points, six rebounds, and five assists, in a performance that promises a bright future for the young star and the Wolverines.
Here is what to know about Michigan's Syla Swords as the women's college basketball season heats up.
Who is Syla Swords?
Syla Swords is the youngest basketball player in Canadian history to compete in the Olympic Games, having been named to Canada's women's basketball roster for the 2024 Olympics. During her time in Paris, Swords played in three games for Canada, averaging 3.3 points and 1.3 rebounds per game.
In addition to the Olympics, Swords has participated in 26 international games for Canada, including 12 at the senior level.
A family with basketball roots
Syla Swords comes from a family with strong connections to basketball. Her father, Shawn Swords, played professionally overseas from 1997 to 2007 and was a member of the Canadian national team during the 2000 Olympics. He currently serves as the associate head coach for the Long Island Nets in the NBA G League.
Her mother, Selley Swords, also played basketball at Laurentian University in Ontario, Canada.
Michigan Wolverines next game
The Michigan Wolverines will host the Central Michigan Chippewas on Thursday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. ET
- Date: Thursday, Nov. 14
- Time: 7 p.m. ET
- Stream: BIG+
- Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan