On Tuesday, Dec. 17 and Wednesday, Dec. 18, the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, NC will host the Jumpman Invitational. It’s the event’s third year, with both the women’s and men’s teams from Florida, Oklahoma, Michigan and North Carolina participating.
On the women’s side, No. 10 Oklahoma (9-1) and No. 20 Michigan (9-1) will meet on Tuesday (9:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2), with No. 19 North Carolina (10-2) facing Florida (7-4) on Wednesday (6:30 p.m. ET, ESPNU). The games not only will be opportunities to see three ranked teams in action, but also will allow for a closer look at some of the nation’s most promising freshmen, particularly those suiting up for the Wolverines and Gators.
Can fresh-faced Michigan hold off veteran Oklahoma?
Despite starting three freshman, Michigan began the season fearlessly, taking a first quarter lead over defending national champion South Carolina at the Hall of Fame Series in Las Vegas. Although the Gamecocks eventually would prevail, the young Wolverines refused to go away, losing by just six points, 68-62.
Leading the charge for Michigan was guard Syla Swords, who dropped 27 points and grabbed 12 boards in her collegiate debut. While she has yet to match that spectacular performance, Swords consistently has provided steady, active play…
