After starting this season ranked 9th in the nation, and one spot in front of bitter rival Ohio State, the Michigan Wolverines could not imagine a more disappointing start. They are currently 6-4 with three of their losses coming to currently ranked opponents (#17 Iowa State, #8 Duke, and #9 Arizona). Their other loss came to the Charlotte 49ers. At least all of their losses have been close, not what they want to hear right now. This program is in a rebuilding year after losing Trey Burke and Tim Hardaway Jr., who led the Wolverines to a NCAA Championship appearance. Their is still plenty of time to revive this season, but their schedule doesn't get easier. They will play multiple ranked opponents more than once to finish the rest of their season, as they have to get through the tough Big Ten.
Michigan's last game was against the #1 ranked Arizona Wildcats. They lost a close battle 72-70, which showed that maybe Michigan is worth what they were once ranked. But nevertheless, no loss looks good on a record. Glenn Robinson III was a big factor in the fight putting up 20 points. Robinson was also a big factor last year in their late season charge throughout the tourney. Other Wolverines who had big nights were Caris LeVert and Nik Stauskas who put up 15 and 14 points. Stauskas also added 6 rebounds to his night. Spike Albrecht, who is known for his three-point shooting after last years tourney charge, shot 3 of 4 from beyond the mark to put up 10 points on his own. Michigan knew they had to shoot to have a chance against the undefeated Wildcats. They shot 50% from the field, and 47% from beyond. They also made 14 of 17 from the line. This outshot the Wildcats from three land and from the field. The Wildcats did have a higher percentage from the line making 14 of 15. There's the two shots they lost right there. But even though it was a tough lost this did give the Wolverines some inspiration that they can play with anyone.
They will play the Buckeyes this season, and they are currently ranked inside the top 5. They will also play Wisconsin and Michigan State, who are also ranked inside the top 5. Iowa is also on their schedule, and they are currently ranked. With this tough of a schedule it provides Michigan an opportunity to prove themselves. We will see if that is what happens.
Michigan Basketball information can be found at: http://www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-baskbl/
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