I don’t think there are words to describe how ugly that game was. If you didn’t see it on TV consider yourself lucky. I think that a combined 11 minute and 44 second field goal drought says enough. The key for Michigan was that Iowa couldn’t make their free throws either. Cyrus Tate was just brutal at the line (10-17) and a lot of those were during the drought.
The player of the game for me is DeShawn Sims. Peedi shot 5 out of 10 (2-5 3pt) for 14 points and 10 rebounds. He took a reasonable number of threes put also got some points inside and in transition. Not to mention a career high 10 rebounds for the double double. Manny of course had an outstanding game (although he is still learning shot selection) pouring in 19 points and 3 assists. Only 12 turnovers as well, one of which was letting the shot clock run out in the last minute.
DeShawn Sims in the interview room after the game is a definetely a little painful. He mentions coaches preparing the team well as well as playing tenacious defense. Not quite sure why Ronnie is in the interview room, maybe it was his 3 rebounds. Beilein steps in on the question of the drought, says that the team watches the margin (“the diff“) and not worried about how long they haven’t scored.
One note: Iowa’s Jake Kelly (Douglass’ former teammate) had 11 points and if Stu has that kinda game he can definetely contribute next year.
Onto Wisconsin tomorrow. Michigan played them tough even while getting out shot (44%-37%), only shooting 4 FTs, and only having 7 assists and Sims only shooting 4-19. However Manny had one of his best games of the year posting 26 points (11-19 shooting) and 6 rebounds.
To stay in the game with Wisconsin we can’t have those kind of droughts and we need to play defense the way we did today. The way we played in the first half, shooting around 45% I think we can at least stay in games. When we got 20 minutes shooting 27% thats when we are in trouble because good teams like Wisconsin will punish you for that.
UMHoops Prediction: Wisconsin 72 – Michigan 64. I think the season ends tomorrow but it was definetely good to at least get a win.
Note: Novak answers after we lose. I’m saving it for you guys. I’m going to miss the game tomorrow but leave some in game comments. Go blue and pull the upset!
