The Wolverines made it hard on themselves for twenty minutes in a game they couldn’t afford to lose. The opening half was a slog as Dusty May’s squad settled for threes and trailed by as many as 11 points against a pesky Virginia Tech squad.
Despite the rocky start and poor shooting, Michigan never lost its resolve, defense, or composure. They dominated the final 20 minutes, 41-30, and walked out of Suncoast Arena with a comfortable 75-63 win (and cover) and a spot in the Fort Myers Tip-Off final.
May’s squad made the requisite adjustments, got to the free-throw line more often, and made the most important shots at the most important times, but the story might be the ability to hang in through an ugly first half. Things can go sideways quickly with an 11-point deficit in the first half, but Michigan scrapped its way back to a 1-point lead at the break.
That’s a product of a team that sticks to a game script that works. Michigan’s defense is terrific once again. The Wolverines routinely win the shot profile, assist, and transition battles. Even when they are slumping, their approach to the game seems to help them stay in check.
It’s frustrating that it has been a while since Michigan played a great game when everything clicked on all cylinders, but it is equally as reassuring that it is figuring out how to grind out victories in the meantime.
Dusty May Promo!
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
