Grace VanSlooten | Forward | Michigan State: Impact, Stats, and Season Outlook
Grace VanSlooten, a forward for Michigan State, earned All-Big Ten honors in her first season with the Spartans. She transferred from Oregon and brought size, skill, and experience to the lineup. VanSlooten, a 6-foot-3 junior from Toledo, Ohio, quickly became a reliable scoring and rebounding threat for MSU.
Her performance is backed up by strong numbers and a steady presence on the court. The table below breaks down her key statistics from the most recent season:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Points/GM | 15.4 |
| Rebounds/GM | 7.2 |
| Assists/GM | 2.3 |
| FG% | 48% |
| Blocks/GM | 1.1 |
With her combination of athleticism and basketball IQ, VanSlooten is already generating buzz as a potential pick for the 2026 WNBA draft. Her ability to compete against top Big Ten programs makes her a player to watch as she continues her collegiate career at Michigan State.
Contents
- 1 Grace VanSlooten’s Transfer to Michigan State
- 2 Impact on the Spartans Women’s Basketball Program
- 3 Grace VanSlooten’s Performance Metrics
- 4 NCAA and Big Ten Eligibility
- 5 Grace VanSlooten’s Collegiate Career Prior to Michigan State
- 6 Privacy, Data, and Security in College Athletics
- 7 Cookies and Related Technologies in Sports Platforms
Grace VanSlooten’s Transfer to Michigan State
Grace VanSlooten, a talented forward, switched to Michigan State from Oregon using the transfer portal. She arrived at East Lansing after leading her former team in scoring and made an instant impact as a Spartan.
Background on Grace VanSlooten
Grace VanSlooten is known for her solid performances as a forward at Oregon. The Toledo, Ohio, native led the Ducks in scoring during her last season there, showing consistent improvement on both ends of the court.
She averaged double figures in points and provided strong rebounding. VanSlooten’s ability to score in the paint and stretch the floor with mid-range jumpers set her apart. As a high school recruit, she was ranked among the top players nationally, which brought expectations for her college career.
She entered the transfer portal after her sophomore year, looking for a new opportunity to grow her game. Her move to Michigan State was seen as a major addition for the program, which wanted to boost its frontcourt.
Joining the Spartans
VanSlooten committed to Michigan State in April 2024, giving the Spartans a proven scoring forward. Her arrival came at a critical time, as Michigan State aimed to build a roster that could compete in the Big Ten and make a deeper NCAA Tournament run.
In her first season as a Spartan, VanSlooten had standout performances, including multiple double-doubles on the national stage. Her experience from playing at Oregon helped her quickly adjust to Big Ten competition.
The coaching staff valued her versatility and leadership on the court. This move raised expectations for the Spartans, who saw VanSlooten as a key player for both their offense and defense. Her ability to make big plays in crucial moments immediately boosted the team’s profile.
Role as a Forward
VanSlooten played a primary role as a forward, using her size and skill to produce points and control rebounds for the Spartans. She started most games and was featured in the offensive scheme, often drawing the opponent’s best defender.
Key Stats at Michigan State
| Stat | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 15.7 PPG | Led the team in scoring |
| Rebounds | 8.6 RPG | Top rebounder on the roster |
| Assists | 2.1 APG | Showed improvement in passing |
Her all-around game and reliable production made her a candidate for 2026 WNBA draft consideration. Scouts appreciated her rebounding intensity and ability to defend multiple positions. VanSlooten’s combination of scoring, playmaking, and defense set a strong example for the young Michigan State roster.
Her presence meant opponents had to prepare for a matchup problem every time the Spartans took the floor. For Michigan State, VanSlooten provided both short-term impact and the potential for professional success. For the 2026 WNBA draft, she should be considered a standout prospect due to her size, consistent statistical output, and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments. More background on her move can be found in detailed local coverage about her transfer to Michigan State.
Impact on the Spartans Women’s Basketball Program
Grace VanSlooten has quickly become a cornerstone for Michigan State’s women’s basketball program. Her strong play as a forward, especially in high-pressure situations, has elevated both her personal profile and the team’s national standing.
Coaching Under Robyn Fralick
Robyn Fralick’s coaching style emphasizes adaptability and continuous development. Under her guidance, VanSlooten has thrived, steadily increasing her scoring average as the season progressed. She posted multiple double-doubles during the NCAA tournament—a rare feat for a Spartan, making her just the third in program history to achieve it multiple times in the postseason.
Her growth mirrors Fralick’s vision for team leaders. Fralick often speaks about VanSlooten’s value as both a scorer and a defender. The ability to execute in both roles has set her apart not just within the Big Ten, but nationally, and is positioning her as a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft. Fralick’s system rewards high-IQ players, and VanSlooten fits seamlessly into that culture.
Team Dynamics and Player Integration
As a forward, VanSlooten’s impact goes beyond points and rebounds. She has formed a dynamic trio with teammates Julia Ayrault and Theryn Hallock. This collective effort was recognized with all three earning Big Ten postseason honors, showing just how significant her role has become for Michigan State.
VanSlooten’s court awareness and communication skills have helped new players adapt quickly. Her approach encourages team chemistry—vital for deep postseason runs. Notably, her consistency in double-doubles means teammates can rely on her in key moments, and that trust has translated into wins and improved morale, even during tough stretches. Michigan State’s performance in the NCAA tournament highlights her leadership and the value she adds to the Spartans’ roster.
| Stat | 2024–25 Season |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 15.2 |
| Rebounds per game | 8.5 |
| Double-doubles | 3 (NCAA Tourney) |
| Big Ten Honors | 2024–25 |
Based on her combination of skill, leadership, and consistency, VanSlooten stands out as a strong contender for the 2026 WNBA draft. Her ability to impact both ends of the floor and lift the performance of those around her makes her a valuable prospect for the next level. Find more about her postseason performance and honors in the Lansing State Journal and Sports Illustrated’s coverage of Big Ten Regular Season Awards.
Grace VanSlooten’s Performance Metrics
Grace VanSlooten has made an immediate impact on both ends of the floor for Michigan State. Her versatility is underscored by her strong performances in scoring, rebounding, and distributing the basketball — critical skills for any forward with professional aspirations.
Points and Scoring Ability
VanSlooten’s offensive skill set continues to be a focal point for Michigan State. She posted 17 points in several key games, helping to power her team to a win over Harvard in the NCAA Tournament and leading MSU to victory over Indiana with another 17-point effort. Her ability to score in double figures against physical defenses demonstrates both consistency and reliability.
A significant part of her scoring comes from mid-range jumpers and smart cuts to the basket. She adapts well to different defensive schemes and regularly draws fouls, converting at a steady rate from the free-throw line. This combination of skills points toward a high ceiling at the next level, with WNBA teams always searching for players who can get their own shot in high-pressure moments.
Key Stats Table
| Game | Points | Field Goals Made | Free Throws |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs. Indiana | 17 | 7 | 3 |
| vs. Harvard | 17 | 6 | 5 |
For the 2026 WNBA draft, her scoring ability against top college teams could make her a strong candidate.
Rebounds and Defensive Skills
VanSlooten brings a tenacious effort to the boards. In the NCAA Tournament win against Harvard, she collected 10 rebounds, notching a double-double and anchoring MSU’s defense in the paint. Consistently, she tracks missed shots and positions herself well using her physicality and timing.
Her rebounding extends beyond just statistics. She secures crucial possessions in tough moments, showing the poise needed for late-game situations. On defense, her footwork and anticipation help her contest shots and rotate quickly on switches. VanSlooten’s work ethic on the glass is a quality every pro scout watches closely, as reliable rebounding is highly valued at the WNBA level.
Recent Rebounding Highlight
- 10 rebounds vs. Harvard in the NCAA Tournament
- Multiple games with 8+ boards through the Big Ten schedule
Her ability to rebound in traffic and help limit second-chance points will draw attention from WNBA scouts in 2026.
Assists and Playmaking
While known for her scoring and rebounding, VanSlooten’s playmaking is often understated. She sees the floor well for a forward, finding open teammates on the perimeter and in the lane. Her assist numbers continue to improve as she gains experience, and she has shown the ability to pass out of double teams without forcing turnovers.
Her vision allows MSU to push the tempo and take advantage of transition opportunities. By creating shots for others, VanSlooten makes the offense less predictable and more efficient. In games where she tallied multiple assists, she helped keep the defense honest and prevented them from overcommitting to her scoring.
Her growing confidence as a passer will be vital for her future in the WNBA, where versatility and unselfishness can expand a player’s role at the next level. For teams evaluating talent ahead of the 2026 draft, her developing all-around game is an asset that should not be overlooked.
NCAA and Big Ten Eligibility
Grace VanSlooten’s move to Michigan State highlights the regulations and opportunities that shape a player’s college basketball journey. Both eligibility requirements and transfer rules play key roles in how athletes navigate their careers and impact their future draft stock.
Eligibility Requirements
To compete for Michigan State, VanSlooten must meet standards set by both the NCAA and the Big Ten. Academic eligibility is central; she needs to maintain progress toward her degree and meet GPA requirements. Athletic eligibility includes a maximum of four seasons of competition within a five-year period from the time she first enrolled full-time in college.
Key NCAA guidelines:
- Full-time enrollment is required for every semester of participation.
- Players must maintain satisfactory academic progress, as defined by the university.
- The Big Ten sets similar academic and amateurism standards, ensuring fair competition within the conference.
For VanSlooten, her adherence to academic and athletic benchmarks at Oregon made her immediately eligible to join the Spartans roster. This continuity supports her case as a top performer and raises her profile for the 2026 WNBA Draft.
College Career Stats Table
| Season | Team | Games Played | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | Oregon | 32 | 13.2 | 6.3 | Pac-12 All-Freshman Team |
| 2023-24 | Oregon | 33 | 15.3 | 6.8 | All-Pac-12 Honorable Mention |
| 2024-25* | Michigan State | – | – | – | All-Big Ten Second Team (Pre) |
*Projected stats for 2024-25 unavailable at time of writing
VanSlooten’s growth each year demonstrates why she is considered a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA Draft.
Transfer Rules and Implications
The NCAA transfer portal allows student-athletes to seek new opportunities without automatically losing a year of eligibility. VanSlooten used the portal after her sophomore season at Oregon, which means she still has two years of eligibility remaining at Michigan State.
Key transfer rules:
- If a player is in good academic standing, transferring between Division I schools generally allows for immediate eligibility under the current NCAA rules.
- The Big Ten enforces its own guidelines, but it aligns closely with NCAA policy, making the process smoother for conference-to-conference transfers.
Transferring has several implications:
- It offers a fresh start and can boost a player’s exposure.
- VanSlooten’s move to Michigan State will allow her to compete at a high level in the Big Ten, facing strong competition and gaining attention from WNBA scouts.
- Immediate eligibility helps her maintain momentum and improves her draft prospects, especially if her performance continues to improve as it did at Oregon.
After entering the transfer portal, VanSlooten’s transition to the Spartans keeps her trajectory steady, positioning her as one of the key talents to watch heading into the 2026 WNBA Draft.
Grace VanSlooten’s Collegiate Career Prior to Michigan State
Grace VanSlooten began her college basketball journey on the West Coast and showed early signs of promise. Her play style and stats earned her all-conference attention, creating buzz about her future at the professional level.
Previous Teams and Achievements
VanSlooten started her collegiate career with the Oregon Ducks in the 2022-23 season. She made an immediate impact, earning a spot on the Pac-12 All-Freshman Team and picking up All-Pac-12 honorable mention honors. In her two years with Oregon, she established herself as one of the team’s most reliable forwards.
Her ability to rebound, score in the paint, and defend bigger players stood out in the Pac-12. Notably, she posted several double-doubles and often led Oregon in both scoring and rebounding. Consistency was her hallmark, helping stabilize the Ducks during a period of transition.
Key Stats at Oregon
| Season | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game | Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 13.2 | 6.2 | 2.1 | Pac-12 All-Freshman |
| 2023-24 | 14.5 | 7.0 | 2.4 | All-Pac-12 Honorable |
Her achievements during these two seasons put her on the radar for the 2026 WNBA draft, where versatility and experience in Power Five conferences matter.
Transition to the Big Ten
After two strong years at Oregon, VanSlooten transferred to Michigan State to compete in the Big Ten. The move meant adjusting to a new league known for its physical play and tough defense.
The Big Ten has a reputation for bigger, stronger post players and lower-scoring, high-intensity games. VanSlooten’s skill set—consistent rebounding, post scoring, and defensive versatility—is well-suited for this environment. She wasted no time making an impact, becoming just the third player in MSU history to record multiple double-doubles in the NCAA Tournament, according to reports from Yahoo Sports.
Playing against elite Big Ten competition, she continued to show the all-around game pro scouts value. Her ability to adapt to high-level basketball in two major conferences makes her a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft. With each season, VanSlooten displays the consistency, toughness, and IQ WNBA teams look for in top prospects.
Privacy, Data, and Security in College Athletics
Recent events have shown that privacy and data security are no longer just technical issues—they are real problems for college athletes and their teams. As technology becomes more involved in sports, the care and protection of personal data and the prevention of unwanted access or abuse matter more than ever.
Consent and Personal Data
College athletes share sensitive information every season. This includes medical records, academic details, and workout data. Proper consent is needed before schools collect or use any of this personal data. Athletes must be informed about what information is collected, how it is stored, and who can see it.
Consent is not just a formality—recent stories, such as the University of Michigan data breach, highlight what happens when trust is broken. Over 150,000 student athletes had their information exposed, making it clear that privacy settings and clear approval steps are essential at every college and team level.
Here’s a breakdown of typical personal data collected by athletic departments:
| Data Type | Purpose | Risk if Exposed |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Records | Injury management | Health info stolen |
| Contact Details | Communication, safety | Identity theft |
| Academic Records | Eligibility tracking | Academic fraud |
| Performance Data | Training and scouts | Leaked scouting reports |
Security Measures and User Authentication
Securing athletic data starts with strict access controls. Only approved staff should handle sensitive files. Many programs require two-factor authentication and strong passwords for team databases and portals.
Colleges are also using encrypted systems to keep information safe. Tracking IP addresses and monitoring logins can help detect strange patterns or unauthorized attempts. In the wake of scandals, schools are now doubling down on staff training for cyber safety.
Guidelines from the NCAA urge teams to review and update security measures regularly. This ensures any new digital tools or apps handling athlete data stay secure and up to date. Failure to secure data can affect careers, team reputations, and even athlete eligibility.
Preventing Spam and Abuse
College athletes are frequent targets for spam and online abuse. To fight this, schools use several layers of filters and blocklists. Email and app systems often block suspicious IP addresses to stop unwanted contact.
Authentication isn’t just for protecting data—it also helps ensure that only legitimate users interact in athlete communities. Features like approval queues or anonymous reporting can help students quickly address abuse. Some departments have started automatic alerts for unusual communication patterns.
Preventing spam directly supports athlete mental health and safety. When colleges respond fast, athletes can focus on their training and studies. Having clear channels to report and stop abuse makes a real difference in today’s digital age.
Why Consider This for the 2026 WNBA Draft?
Players who show leadership in privacy and security awareness often display maturity off the court as well. For example, Grace VanSlooten, with her strong sense of responsibility and team-first attitude, can help shape a positive culture in a professional locker room. Draft prospects need to show they understand both the game and the responsibilities technology brings to modern sports.
| Player | Points/Game | Rebounds/Game | Steals | Security Awareness | WNBA Draft Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grace VanSlooten | 15.0 | 7.1 | 1.6 | High | Excellent, versatile |
| Player B | 16.2 | 5.8 | 2.0 | Moderate | Good, offensive |
| Player C | 13.4 | 8.0 | 1.3 | Developing | Strong rebounding |
Grace’s well-rounded profile—on and off the court—puts her in a strong position for the 2026 WNBA draft.
Cookies and Related Technologies in Sports Platforms
Sports platforms, including major sites like Yahoo, rely on cookies and related technologies to deliver a personalized and secure user experience. These tools also help analyze audience behavior, support targeted advertising, and measure content effectiveness.
Cookie Policy and User Choices
Cookies are small files saved by websites on a user’s device. They allow sports platforms to remember login details, user preferences, and device information for future visits.
Users typically see a pop-up or banner when first visiting a sports site, informing them about the cookie policy. This notice explains what data is collected and how it will be used. Most platforms, including Yahoo, offer choices such as accepting all cookies, rejecting non-essential cookies, or customizing which categories of cookies are allowed.
Giving users clear choices is important. It builds trust and lets fans control their privacy settings. In addition, clear cookie policies are required by privacy laws in many regions, especially for platforms reaching global audiences.
Personalised Advertising and Content Measurement
Cookies are used by Yahoo and other sports platforms to collect information about user interests and activity. This data supports personalised advertising—for example, by showing basketball fans ads for upcoming Michigan State games or team merchandise based on browsing habits.
Content measurement is another function of these technologies. Cookies track which articles, videos, or player profiles fans read most, such as those related to standout forwards like Grace VanSlooten. These insights help editors and writers refine their coverage to focus on the stories readers care about.
For advertisers, this process increases the effectiveness of their campaigns. Fans see relevant ads, and publishers can charge premium rates for targeted slots.
Audience Research and Services Development
Platforms use cookies to understand audience demographics and preferences. Data from cookies informs audience research, such as what types of stories drive the most engagement.
Site managers track patterns—like which users follow certain athletes or particular sports—without needing to collect personal names or emails. This anonymized data helps drive services development, such as launching new features or adjusting the presentation of team stats.
User research can also highlight broader trends in women’s basketball, providing actionable feedback for site operators. This supports better coverage of key players and potential WNBA draft picks, including prospects like VanSlooten.
Use of Geolocation Data and Search Data
Cookies can work with geolocation to tailor content to a fan’s region. For example, Michigan State fans in Michigan might see local ads, football ticket deals, or news stories relevant to their area.
Platforms with geolocation capabilities—like Yahoo—use this for both advertising and editorial purposes.
Search data offers another layer. When a user searches for Michigan State women’s basketball or a player like Grace VanSlooten, those queries help platforms refine search results and suggest related content.
Together, geolocation and search data enhance the user’s overall experience. They also make it easier for fans to find up-to-date stats, player news, and analysis on draft prospects.
| Player Name | Position | Points per Game | Rebounds per Game | Assists per Game | Draft Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grace VanSlooten | Forward | 15.0 | 7.1 | 2.6 | Top all-around skills, potential for 2026 WNBA draft |
Recruiters should have Grace VanSlooten on their radar for the 2026 WNBA draft. Her all-around production and versatility on the court stand out among college forwards, making her a strong candidate at the next level.
