Michigan's Second-Half Surge Propels Them Past Alabama in Sweet 16
In a thrilling Sweet 16 matchup, Michigan basketball found themselves trailing Alabama by two at halftime. The question of whether the top-seeded Wolverines would advance was very much up in the air-until Yaxel Lendeborg decided to take matters into his own hands.
As the second half began, Lendeborg set the tone with a quick 3-pointer, followed by a basket, a steal, and an assist. This explosive start fueled a 7-0 run that shifted momentum firmly in Michigan's favor.
Roddy Gayle then joined the action, sinking a triple courtesy of another Lendeborg assist. Lendeborg continued his hot streak with another three-pointer and a two-point shot, stretching Michigan's lead to eight.
Lendeborg wasn't done yet. He dished out another assist to Elliot Cadeau, who nailed a 3-pointer, pushing the Wolverines' lead to 13.
From that point on, Michigan maintained control, cruising to a 90-77 victory. Alabama struggled to close the gap, and Lendeborg's performance was nothing short of legendary as Michigan advanced.
Lendeborg Shines Bright in Sweet 16
"We needed our guy to be our guy and he did it all night," praised Michigan's coach, Dusty May, highlighting Lendeborg's All-American prowess. The future NBA first-rounder delivered with 23 points on 8-of-12 shooting, including 4-for-5 from beyond the arc. He also grabbed 12 rebounds, handed out six assists, and snagged two steals.
Lendeborg, a finalist for the National Player of the Year award, showcased his skills on both ends of the court. While Michigan's offense found its rhythm in the second half, it was their defensive adjustments that made a significant impact. The Wolverines tightened up their on-ball defense, dominated the boards, and stopped going under screens.
Despite some missed free throws, Michigan's shooting efficiency stood out. Alabama hit 14 three-pointers, but Michigan countered with 13 of their own and shot an impressive 50 percent from the field compared to Alabama's 36 percent. The Wolverines also won the rebounding battle, 40-28.
In the second half, Michigan outscored Alabama 43-28, turning the tide decisively. Contributions from Trey McKenney and Gayle in the first half kept Michigan within striking distance, but it was Lendeborg and Cadeau who took charge after the break.
Cadeau finished with a strong performance of 17 points, five rebounds, and seven assists. McKenney and Gayle combined for 33 points off the bench, hitting 6-of-10 from three-point range.
While it wasn't a flawless game, Michigan's resilience and star power carried them through. With this win, the Wolverines are now halfway to their ultimate goal of a national championship.