Grace VanSlooten Ascends: Preseason Honor Unveiled
EAST LANSING, Mich. - The excitement is palpable as Michigan State women’s basketball forward, Grace VanSlooten, shines bright in the world of collegiate sports. Named 2025-26 Preseason All-Big Ten, this accolade marks a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. This honor, recognized by both coaches and media, stands testament to her hard work and dedication. VanSlooten, the Spartans’ leading scorer, propelled her way into the spotlight by averaging an impressive 15.5 points per game last season.
A Star in The Making
In her first season with Michigan State, VanSlooten had already made waves, clinching the second-team All-Big Ten honors. Her impressive stat sheet showcases her prowess on the court, including a career-high accumulation of 480 points in her junior year. The turning point came during a thrilling victory against Vanderbilt at the Acrisure Classic, where she scored her 1,000th career point, a feat that underscores her scoring ability and endurance.
Battle for Big Ten Supremacy
The Big Ten conference is as competitive as ever. According to Michigan State University Athletics, UCLA is poised to clinch the top spot in both the coaches and media preseason polls, with Lauren Betts recognized as the Preseason Player of the Year. Maryland and USC are close contenders, with Michigan and Ohio State following closely. VanSlooten stands among the elite, contending for top honors alongside remarkable athletes like UCLA’s Kiki Rice and Maryland’s Yarden Garzon.
Looking Ahead: Navigating the Season
The upcoming season is lined with high-stakes matchups, commencing with an exhibition game against Michigan Tech. The Spartans will officially open their regular season hosting Mercyhurst. All eyes will be on Grace VanSlooten as her leadership and skill on the court will be pivotal in spearheading her team through the challenges ahead.
Building the Legacy
As the basketball community awaits the season’s kick-off, Grace VanSlooten’s trajectory serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the grit and perseverance required to excel at the collegiate level. Her achievements, marked by this prestigious preseason honor, lay the foundation for a promising season and potentially a legacy at Michigan State.
With her eyes set on the prize and her determination evident, Grace VanSlooten is more than ready to tackle the impending challenges of the 2025-26 season. Her journey is a testament to the dynamic spirit of college basketball and the sheer willpower to triumph against odds. Stay tuned as VanSlooten and the Spartans embark on what promises to be an exhilarating season.
