3 things we learned from Michigan Basketball loss to Iowa
Michigan can’t win close games
Close games haven’t been the only reason why Michigan has underachieved this season. However, it’s a big reason why this team is struggling to even get on the NCAA tournament bubble.
Michigan could have won games against Iowa, Virginia, North Carolina, and Kentucky. The Michigan State game was also winnable and surely, Central Michigan was too.
The Wolverines did win a couple of close games, including one recently over Penn State, but it’s an issue and has been throughout the Juwan Howard era.
Over the last four seasons, Michigan is now 3-8 against high-major teams in games decided by one possession or in overtime.
— Zach Shaw (@_ZachShaw) January 13, 2023
The prior four seasons, the Wolverines were 13-6 in such games.
This year, it’s not rocket science why Michigan has struggled in close games. A few of those years talked about above were because of Xavier Simpson. Having quality guards makes all the difference in the world at the end of games and Michigan is relying on three youngsters.
Jett has been great but he’s struggled a little at the end of games and Dug has too. He hit a big 3-pointer last night and got a decent look on the final shot and just missed.
When your best player is big, it makes it harder to get a shot with limited time on the clock. I’d like to see Jett and Kobe get more chances late, but the issue is just as much about defense and making free throws, as it is about poor offensive possessions.
Next. Gut reactions to Iowa loss. dark
There are little things you need to do to be able to close out games and this year especially, Michigan has struggled with them and Thursday was the most glaring example yet.