GREENSBORO, N.C. — In an exciting matchup, Wake Forest defeated Michigan 72-70 at First Horizon Coliseum on Sunday afternoon, thanks to a fast-break dunk by Tre’von Spillers and clutch free throw shooting by Hunter Sallis in the final moments.

This showdown marked the first encounter between the two teams in 24 years and initiated a two-game neutral-site series called the Deacon-Wolverine Challenge, with the return game set to occur in Detroit next year. Previously, these teams faced off during the ACC/Big Ten Challenge on November 10, 2000, where Wake Forest emerged victorious as well.

Midway through the second half, Spillers made two free throws, leveling the score at 57-57. Wake Forest then took the lead a minute later and managed to hold onto it for the remainder of the game.

While Michigan struggled offensively throughout the contest, Vladislav Goldin made back-to-back layups that pulled the Wolverines to within two points at 63-61. However, after Sallis hit a jumper, Danny Wolf’s layup with just under four minutes left became Michigan’s last basket. The following three minutes saw no scoring, with both teams exchanging turnovers until Spillers seized an opportunity, stealing the ball and driving to the basket for a dunk with 38 seconds remaining.

Michigan managed to shoot seven consecutive free throws before Rubin Jones intentionally missed one with only 1.7 seconds left, but the Wolverines couldn’t secure the rebound.

Sallis was the top scorer for Wake Forest (3-0), finishing with 18 points while converting six out of 13 attempts from the field and hitting six of seven from the free-throw line. Spillers contributed 16 points, and Juke Harris added 11 points along with five rebounds off the bench. Efton Reid III was a strong presence on the boards, pulling down 10 rebounds.

For Michigan (1-1), Roddy Gayle Jr. led the team with 11 points, making all four of his free-throw attempts, while Tre Donaldson chipped in 10 points and nine rebounds. LJ Cason also made a notable impact off the bench with 10 points and four assists.

The match provided thrilling moments and showcased strong performances from key players as both teams look to build on their results in upcoming games.