ANN ARBOR, Mich. – No. 3-ranked Michigan Wolverines head coach Dusty May reflected on his team’s hard-fought victory over No. 5 Nebraska Cornhuskers inside Crisler Arena.
The Wolverines took down the undefeated Cornhuskers 75-72 on Tuesday (Jan. 27) to improve to 19-1, 9-1 in the Big Ten.
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The victory also placed them in first place in the conference as Nebraska suffered its first loss of the season.
“First of all, I want to congratulate Nebraska on a great game,” May said. “They were short-handed but played as hard and physical as ever. They gave us everything.”
May praised Michigan’s resilience in the final minutes, noting Nebraska disrupted much of their play.
“Our fans were awesome. The energy was great. There’s no easy button here—we have to elevate our play and physicality, especially going into Friday night on the road.”
May highlighted the defensive adjustments made at halftime to slow Nebraska’s offense, which led by as much as 11 points in the first half.
“We tweaked our ball screen coverage and increased urgency to get to shooters,” May said.
Despite some errors and cutting layups, the team’s size, length, and athleticism helped change shots and force tough attempts as Michigan held Nebraska scoreless for the game’s final three to four minutes.
May also praised Trey McKenney’s performance, especially his clutch free throws late in the game.
“When you’re chasing a championship, different guys have to step up each night. Trey made some big free throws that shifted momentum,” May said.
May acknowledged the team’s offensive struggles but emphasized their determination.
“We didn’t move the ball well enough, but our sheer will to win the last few minutes was impressive,” May said.
When asked about the team’s “winning DNA,” May said, “I believe you make your own luck. Our guys prepared and put in the work. They stepped up and made the free throws when it mattered most.”
Big man Morez Johnson Jr. led the team in points and rebounds as he finished with 17 points and 12 boards in the victory.
Michigan State
Looking ahead to the Michigan State Spartans game on Friday, Jan. 30, May warned, “There’s nothing easy about Friday night. It’s a rivalry game with a lot on the line. We have to play better on the road and get over the hump.”
Physicality of Nebraska
May addressed the game’s physical nature and the need to play through it.
“Both teams were aggressive. We have to be stronger with the ball and reduce turnovers,” May said.
May also discussed guarding Nebraska without forward Rienk Mast, noting the challenge posed by other contributors.
Defensive improvements in the second half were credited to better awareness and forcing tough shots.
“We wanted to force difficult shots and live with the results, assuming we could rebound,” May said.
May noted the importance of size and physicality in games where offense is bogged down.
“We had to muck it up tonight,” May said.
The crowd’s energy also played a big role.
“When you can’t hear yourself think on defense, that’s a cool thing. Our student section is one of the best environments in the country,” May said.
May concluded by praising Nebraska’s performance and looking forward.
“They’re top five for a reason. Hats off to them. Now it’s on to the next,” May said.
The Wolverines will travel lto the Breslin Center on Friday to take on the Spartans.
Tipoff is slated for 8 p.m.