LINCOLN, Neb. — In a tightly contested game marked by low scoring and intense defense, No. 15 Michigan secured a narrow 49-46 victory over Nebraska on Monday night. This outcome, achieved with just 49 points, represents the Wolverines’ fewest points in a win in 17 years. It also signifies one of the few instances in the past 11 years that a Big Ten team has emerged victorious with fewer than 50 points.
Michigan’s overall performance was below their usual standards, with the team shooting a season-low 30%. However, they fared slightly better than Nebraska, who recorded a 26% shooting performance—its worst since a 2019 game against Maryland. The game was a battle of defenses with minimal offensive success. Both teams struggled with field goals, as Nebraska managed only 1 of 7 on layups while Michigan achieved a slightly better rate, making 3 of 12.
Tre Donaldson contributed significantly to Michigan’s win, scoring 11 points, and hit two crucial free throws with just four seconds left in the game. Roddy Gayle Jr. also played a key role, scoring 12 points. Meanwhile, Danny Wolf recorded a double-double, adding 10 points and 10 rebounds to the Wolverines’ efforts.
On the Cornhuskers’ side, Brice Williams led the offensive charge with 26 points, while the rest of the team struggled to find the basket, combining for only 20 points. Despite Williams’ strong individual performance, Nebraska fell short due to a lack of support from his teammates.
The Wolverines’ ability to pull through in such challenging games highlights their resilience, keeping them tied with Michigan State at the top of the Big Ten standings. Nebraska, on the other hand, needs to address their reliance on Williams for scoring, as they suffered their second consecutive loss.
A pivotal sequence occurred when Michigan scored on three successive possessions, establishing a six-point lead with 4:25 remaining. This stretch included a 3-pointer and jumper both from Wolf, and a 3-pointer from L.J. Cason, contributing to a 45-39 advantage.
For Nebraska, Williams was instrumental in the first half, scoring 18 out of the team’s 21 points, with Connor Essegian being the only other player to make a field goal during this period.
Looking ahead, Michigan is set to face Rutgers at home on Thursday. Nebraska will return to their home court to take on Minnesota on Saturday.
