Next: Michigan State

Tonight Michigan hosts Michigan State at Crisler Arena at 7:00pm. These teams are quite familiar with each other and even though Michigan State has had the edge the games have been much closer since Kevin Borseth took over as coach (including a win at Crisler his inaugural season).

This is a big game for the Wolverines - a win here and a strong finish to the season (including the Big 10 tournament) could lead to another post season invite. While an NCAA invitation seems like a long shot while they are sitting under .500 in conference play, it isn't out of the question - if they can manage one or two more big wins (Michigan State would qualify) and improve on the road (always a tough task).

Two more things to point out:

1.) $1 admission with this voucher

2.) There's much to say about the Michigan Daily article on Borseth's much-publicized coaching style. I'll chime this weekend, but the fire's already started in the forums.

Michigan 74, Minnesota 40

Welcome back Carmen!

After a nine-point performance at Northwestern that resulted in a loss, Reynolds seemed to return to form as the high-scorer in Sunday's rout. With freshman Dayeesha Hollins, the two exploded out of the gate after the break and extended a six-point halftime lead to 15. Reynolds had 14 points in the second half and finished with 19.

I only have the box score to work off from, but I think it's safe to say that the defense played a big part of this win also. The Wolverines limited Minnesota to .233 from the field, its lowest output this season and Michigan's best against an opponent.

Everybody did their part in today's game whether it was KP, who was one rebound shy of a double-double, or the bench where all but one were on the scoreboard.

The game lifts Michigan to 6-7 for the Big Ten season and 14-9 overall. After a 2-6 start in the conference, I'd say the Wolverines are now getting used to the grind, which doesn't surprise me given two freshmen starters. Today's win is particularly important as Michigan dives into three-game stretch against the top half of the conference (MSU, PSU and Wisco).

Michigan State, who also started poorly in the conference season, will most likely grab its fifth-straight win. That game is slated for 7p EST Thursday.

Update: Who dat?

Update 2: Spartans lost to Iowa, 77-66. Interesting.