Dusty May said that Michigan basketball would be a fun team to watch and the Wolverines certainly delivered on that promise against Cleveland State on Monday night.
The Vikings are a top-200 team in the Kenpom rankings but they aren't a juggernaut. So that's important to keep in mind. But after a sluggish start, the Wolverines exploded for 54 points in the first half as three Michigan basketball players reached double figures.
Danny Wolf dominated in the first half on both ends of the floor for Michigan basketball with 14 points, eight rebounds, three blocks, and two steals. He did have three turnovers but at least one of those should have been an assist.
Wolf impressed with his playmaking, shotmaking, and creativity plus the defensive effort. Roddy Gayle was also stellar on both ends of the floor and scored 11 points and dished out three assists in the first half as Michigan basketball scored 1.48 points per possession while allowing just 0.71.
Michigan was good in the first half but got even better in the second. L.J. Cason provided a spark with eight points early in the second stanza. Then, it felt like everyone got involved. Sam Walters hit a couple of 3-pointers and the Wolverines connected on 10 total. Wolf had 19 points and 12 rebounds when it was all said and done. Donaldson managed 16 (made every shot). Cason pitched in with 14; Gayle had 13. Will Tschetter added 13 off the bench and Walters had 10.
May's debut featured one of the most efficient offensive games in Michigan basketball history. The defense wasn't far behind and here are the gut reactions.
Fun has arrived for Michigan basketball
Whether it was guys knocking down 3-pointers, Will Tschetter throwing down slam dunks, dudes diving on the floor or whatever, this was as fun as expected.
Not only did Michigan basketball score 100 points in May's debut, which was fitting, but Cleveland State barely scored 50.
The energy was infectious. The ball was flying around the court and it was the kind of offense we haven't seen since the days of John Beilein. Now we can see why the former Michigan basketball head coach was desperate for May to get the job. Yet, the defense was fun to watch too. The communication and intensity jumped off the screen.
It's early but adjust your expectations accordingly.