Studs and Duds: Michigan’s Disappointing Loss Against UConn in National Championship Rematch

Michigan Falls Behind Early

The Wolverines faced their first major test of the season after beating Oakland on Tuesday. Against the Connecticut Huskies, Michigan struggled to protect the ball and find its range from three-point distance, losing 85-77.

Michigan trailed by 13 at halftime. McKenney had not scored, going 0-for-7 from the field in the first half and missing two free throws after Dan Hurley received a technical foul.

McKenney Sparks Second-Half Push

McKenney came alive after halftime, scoring 22 points on 8-for-11 shooting. He made four three-pointers as Michigan cut its deficit to single digits. His scoring gave the Wolverines a chance to rally, but the rest of the team contributed little while he led the charge. Michigan’s other players scored 25 points in the second half, with much of that production coming after the outcome was largely settled.

McKenney and Cadeau are expected to carry more of the scoring load this season. The performance showed McKenney’s potential, but he will need to deliver more consistently.

Estrella and Gayle Provide Positives

JP Estrella finished with 19 points and nine rebounds, narrowly missing a second double-double in his early Michigan career. He made six of seven shots from the floor and seven of eight free throws.

Roddy Gayle Jr. scored 18 points in 31 minutes and went six-for-six at the free-throw line. He missed all three of his three-point attempts, while his defensive effort and high motor remain qualities coach Mike Boynton Jr. can value.

Cadeau and Thiam Struggle

Cadeau made three of 11 shots for eight points, with three assists and five turnovers. Foul trouble limited him in the second half, and he fouled out. Michigan’s scoring burden makes Cadeau’s early-season shooting a concern, though it remains early in the schedule. Newcomer Thiam played 15 minutes in his debut, going one-for-three with two turnovers and four fouls; he had been ill on Tuesday.