At halftime of Michigan’s game Thursday night, Maryland had piled up nine 3-pointers on 11 attempts. Yet Michigan still led, 46-44, having allowed fewer two-point field goals (seven) than 3-pointers.
Maryland cooled off from deep in the second half, and the Wolverines pulled away, buoyed by yet another dominant performance from freshman center Hunter Dickinson.
But the first-half defensive performance paints the picture of a dichotomy that’s taken shape early in the season. Michigan ranks third in the nation in 2-point defense, allowing just over 38 percent shooting to opponents from inside the arc. This has proven to be a lethal combination alongside an offense that ranks fourth in 2-point field goal percentage.
The Wolverines rank 274th, however, in 3-point defense, allowing opponents to make 37 percent of long-range attempts. Senior guard Eli Brooks said the team aims to limit opponents to six 3-pointers per game; Michigan has done so just once through three games. That’s coupled with a defensive turnover rate that ranks near the bottom of the country (313th nationally).
Special Offer!
Subscribe to Continue Reading
Join the UM Hoops community today and access our exclusive content.
- Advanced analysis and previews
- Member-only forum & monthly ‘Ask Me Anything’
- In-depth video breakdowns and features
- Ad-free viewing
Already a UM Hoops member? Sign in below
