Even though it wasn’t exactly a clean performance, the Wolverines staved off TCU’s comeback behind Nimari Burnett and Danny Wolf’s 30 combined points. Here’s the recap:
The Michigan Wolverines improved to 2-1 with a 76-64 win over the previously unbeaten TCU Horned Frogs on Friday night at Crisler Center. Even though it wasn’t exactly a clean performance as the Wolverines posted a season-worst 21 turnovers, Michigan staved off TCU’s second-half comeback behind Nimari Burnett’s game-high 16 points.
Coming off a narrow loss to the Wake Forest Demon Deacons last weekend, it was important for Michigan to get back on track and pick up a win over a quality opponent. The Wolverines were fueled by four double-figure scorers as Burnett led the way along with big man Danny Wolf racking up 14 points and 14 rebounds in the non-conference win.
FIRST HALF
The Wolverines jumped out to a 7-0 lead as Burnett connected on a three-pointer from the wing, but a series of turnovers allowed TCU to quickly respond and tie the game. Michigan outplayed TCU throughout most of the first half, but 16 turnovers kept the Horned Frogs within striking distance as the Wolverines took a 34-31 lead heading into halftime.
Despite an abysmal 42.1 percent turnover rate, Dusty May’s team held a slight advantage after shooting 12-of-23 from the field and 5-of-13 from three-point range. The turnovers were the biggest reason why TCU was able to remain in the game, but Burnett helped Michigan stay in front with a team-high 10 points on 4-of-4 shooting.
Friday Night Victory
Burnett: 16p | 6-7 FG | 3-4 3FG
Donaldson: 14p | 3a | 5-9 FG
Wolf: 14p | 14r | 6-11 FG#GoBlue pic.twitter.com/s4zCfZaWad— Michigan Men’s Basketball (@umichbball) November 16, 2024
SECOND HALF
Michigan started to find a rhythm offensively as forward Sam Walters finished a fast-break layup and knocked down a three-pointer to open up a 51-40 lead in the early stages of the second half. TCU went on an 18-9 run to cut the deficit to one possession, but the Wolverines answered as Donaldson drilled a clutch triple to extend the lead to 63-58.
In addition to cutting down on turnovers following a frustrating first half, Michigan continued to attack the rim and created some high quality shots as TCU tried to mount a comeback but ultimately came up short. The Wolverines were able to hang on down the stretch, holding TCU scoreless in the last two minutes and finishing the game on a 16-6 run.
Michigan is scheduled to return to the court against the Miami (Ohio) Redhawks on Monday evening with a chance to build even more momentum as non-conference play ramps up in the coming weeks. In order to reach their potential this season, the Wolverines must clean up the turnover issues but the win over TCU was a step in the right direction.