I didn't expect Michigan to win today, but they were certainly good enough to but just couldn't hit enough shots or get enough stops at the end. I still don't get playing Nunez at all and playing Castleton so much in the first half instead of the 4-guard lineup that they went with towards the end (as they did against Purdue), but it all goes back to not having Livers. I'd almost concede Friday's game at Iowa if it means he's ready for the Penn State game and beyond.
Michigan hit more 3s at a higher percentage than they had in previous road games but also missed other wide open looks, particularly from Brooks, who I also think should not be playing as much over DeJulius at this point. The team is getting much better at not taking bad shots, though they still get forced into late shotclock situations too often. Simpson is still expected to do too much, but he played quite well today. Wagner also had one of his best games, which is encouraging..... Defensively, Michigan just couldn't stop Otoru until he got hurt, and throughout the second half they also let Carr and Demir get inside too easily. I'm not sure why they didn't double Oturu more and help off Williams, Willis, and Omersa who bare did anything.
Hopefully having 4 days off between each of the next two games will help the team get some rest, and we'll see if Livers is back soon....
