What's Happening?
The Michigan Wolverines, ranked No. 2, secured a decisive 96-66 victory over the No. 24 USC Trojans. Morez Johnson Jr. led the Wolverines with a career-high 29 points, including 17 in the first half. The Wolverines maintained
their unbeaten streak, improving to 13-0 overall and 3-0 in the Big Ten Conference. Roddy Gayle Jr. contributed 12 points, while Will Tschetter, Trey McKenney, and L.J. Cason each added 10 points. USC's Jaden Brownell scored 16 points, but the Trojans struggled after Chad Baker-Mazara faced early foul trouble. Michigan's defense was pivotal, forcing six early turnovers and establishing an 11-0 lead. Despite USC's efforts to close the gap, Michigan's strong first-half performance set the tone for the game.
Why It's Important?
This victory underscores Michigan's strong start to the season, reminiscent of their 2018-19 campaign when they won 17 consecutive games. The Wolverines' performance highlights their potential as a formidable contender in the Big Ten and possibly in the national championship race. For USC, the loss marks a setback in their season, emphasizing the challenges they face against top-ranked teams. The game also showcased the depth of Michigan's roster, with multiple players contributing significantly to the win. This depth could be crucial as the season progresses and the team faces tougher competition.
