It was a low scoring affair tonight as both teams struggled to make baskets and gain momentum. Our Huskers had an incredible defensive performance against a great Michigan offense. However, our offense struggled with missed baskets, layups, and turnovers. This ultimately led to a 49 to 46 Nebraska loss.
The game started out okay for our Huskers with Brice Williams making his first three shots. However, this momentum would not last. We were able to contain a strong Michigan offense, but failed to respond. The game was in reach at halftime with Nebraska only being down by four points. At halftime, Michigan lead 25 to 21.
The second half was similar to the first with our continued challenges on offense, but our ability to keep it close. We were able to tie the game a few times, but every time we tied it up Michigan managed to make a basket and take the lead. Unfortunately, our inability to stop them offensively and some missed shots cost us the game.
This was a very physical game from the beginning, but unfortunately, it did not go Nebraska’s way. Our offense was very stagnant outside of Brice Williams. He totaled 26 points on the night. Williams also became just the third player in Nebraska basketball history to score 1000 points in two years for the program. Although he had a great night, the rest of our offense had a difficult time getting anything going. We struggled from inside the paint and missed a lot of shots off the rim. This offensive performance was difficult to witness.
Even though we struggled offensively, we were still able to keep it close the entire game. As for our defense, they did a great job containing Michigan’s explosive offense. Michigan typically averages around 80 points per game, but we held them to only 49. We did a great job guarding and defending their excellent playmakers by not allowing them to take over the game. I was very impressed with this unit and think they did a great job bouncing back from the loss against Penn State last Wednesday.
Another aspect that really hurt us was our turnovers and some tough officiating calls that went against us. Hopefully we can clean some things up before the next game. Up next, Minnesota comes in town to face our Huskers on Saturday. Tip off is set for 1 o’clock on Big Ten network.
GBR
