Michigan enters biggest week of season as nation’s new No. 1

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For the first time since 2013, the Michigan men’s basketball team is ranked No. 1 in the country. And before 2013, the last time the Wolverines were atop the polls was in the Fab Five era in 1992.

A testament to Michigan’s 24-1 record entering the biggest week of its season so far, the Wolverines have earned the nod by finding ways to win in different scenarios. Whether it’s quieting a second-half comeback at No. 15 Michigan State, fighting neck and neck with No. 9 Nebraska at home, overcoming its largest deficit of the season on the road against Northwestern, or winning its 10th game this season by 30 points or more against UCLA, Michigan has won in a multitude of ways to earn its No. 1 ranking.

“It says that we have a really talented group of people, coaches, players, support staff, everyone involved that make each other better,” Michigan coach Dusty May said. “I think if you take several of our guys away, then we’re not near as good. … It means absolutely nothing right now. I don’t remember any staff I’ve ever been on, what we were ranked at the end of the year. To be honest, I don’t recall and don’t really care. So it’s awesome for our fans. It’s cool for the energy and intensity that it brings to the games. But as far as internally, or me emotionally, it doesn’t mean anything.”

With huge matchups in Mackey Arena against No. 7 Purdue and against No. 3 Duke in Washington, D.C., Michigan coach Dusty May and his roster and staff aren’t focused too much on the No. 1 ranking; they’re focused on what they have been all season — the games that matter.

The first game against the Boilermakers will provide a similar test to last season, entering one of the most hostile environments in college basketball against one of the most experienced teams in the country. Last season, the Wolverines called a timeout less than four minutes into the game because Purdue had gone on a 13-2 run and forced five turnovers in that span.

“It’s the energy that the fans bring,” May said. “They’re an educated fan base. They know the game, they appreciate the game, they know what winning looks like, and so them being a part of it is certainly a factor. They’re contributing to Purdue’s success on a nightly basis, but it’s an unbelievable challenge for us that I think our guys are up for.”