ANN ARBOR, Mich. – No. 2-ranked Michigan Wolverines head coach Dusty May praised his team’s maturity and unselfish play following their 110-69 victory inside Crisler Center.
“We had 17 assists out of 19 baskets in the second half and 31 out of 40 for the game,” May said. “That’s a testament to a group that respects and values each other and puts the team on the same plane as themselves.”
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May highlighted the contributions of the team’s young players, noting they played extended minutes and performed well.
He also shared an observation from a recent Detroit Pistons game, where bench players competed with the same intensity as starters, calling it “a testament to a real healthy culture.”
Regarding player Oscar Goodman, May said, “He’s a good player. His consistency in practice has made the biggest jump from last year. He’s only a year and a half into college and has a bright future. He’s a great teammate, conscientious and intentional with everything we do.”
May also addressed the health of players Winters Grady and Roddy Gayle Jr., who have been battling illness and injuries, explaining the team’s cautious approach to their playing time.
On trusting players with early fouls, May said, “We trust that a young player like Namari Burnett won’t make impulsive bad decisions. He’s like a coach on the floor and had a great game tonight.”
Big night for Nimari! pic.twitter.com/ECsAP9a8Eg
— Michigan Men's Basketball (@umichbball) February 6, 2026
Burnett had a career-high 31 points to the a-Maize-ment of the fans inside Crisler Arena.
With the victory, Michigan broke a three-way tie with the 2018-19 team and the 2012-13 teams, both of which featured some great players.
Reflecting on the team’s 21-1 start, the best in program history, May expressed pride but emphasized the team’s focus on bigger goals.
“It’s a heck of an honor, but not our ultimate goal,” May said.
May praised the team’s defense, noting the opponent didn’t hit a three-pointer until late in the game due to disciplined play and effective contesting.
He also described the team’s recent practices as intense but efficient, crediting the players for their focus and readiness.
When asked about avoiding complacency after a big win, May said the team maintains a workmanlike approach and judges itself by effort in practice, not by past results.
The men in maize will travel to Columbus to take on the Ohio State Buckeyes on Sunday, Feb. 8, at 1 p.m.