On Jan. 27, the college basketball world was in for a treat with a clash between two of the nation’s best: No. 3-ranked Michigan playing host to No. 5-ranked Nebraska.
Nebraska, which entered the game on a 24-game winning streak, has been the nation’s biggest surprise; a team that has consistently been a mid-tier contender, handling business in one of the most competitive conferences in basketball, the Big 10. The Wolverines have also been incredible, as they have beaten most of their opponents, highlighted by a forty-point victory over Gonzaga early in the year.
On Tuesday, the stars aligned, and the world was treated to one of the most competitive games of the season.
The teams were neck and neck from tip to finish, with both squads trading blows early on in the first half. Nebraska was able to break away midway through the first half, taking an eleven-point advantage thanks to a hot start from Jamarques Lawrence.
Michigan, however, was able to claw all the way back to within two of the Cornhuskers at the end of the first half after forward Aday Mara sank a bucket at the buzzer.
The score was 50-48 entering the second half. Both teams came out playing actively on the ball, disrupting passing lanes and contesting jumpers. The once fast-paced and electric offensive showcase was slowed down mightily and as the half progressed, every possession mattered.
With three and a half minutes to go, Nebraska held a narrow 70-69 lead over the Wolverines; however, after crucial fouls against the Cornhuskers, Michigan was able to tie it at 72 after Elliot Cadeau sank the back end of two free throws. Shortly after, Michigan’s Trey McKenney swiftly knocked through a layup, giving the Wolverines a 74-72 lead in the game’s dying embers.
Now down by three, Nebraska had one last opportunity to give us bonus basketball, but Jamarques Lawrence’s three-pointer missed and Michigan delivered Nebraska their first loss of the season, 75-72.
Despite the loss, it is clear that Nebraska is legit and will be a force come March, while Michigan continues to prove that they are one of the best teams in the country.
