What a drama at Staples Center! In an incredibly tight and exciting thriller the Michigan Wolverines win 58:54 against Florida State. This means that Moritz Wagner’s team is in the Final Four for the first time since 2013. This way to the bracket.
Topscorer: Charles Matthews (17) – Phil Cofer (16)
It was definitely a used evening that Moritz Wagner caught this time. After previously strong performances in the tournament, the German remained cold for the entire game. After the first half Wagner was out of the field at 0 out of 5 and also after the change of sides it didn’t really get better.
Although the 20-year-old had 12 points and 6 rebounds in the boxing score at the end of the game, only 3 of his 11 throws made it through the cage, absolutely nothing went from downtown (0/7 threesome). He also had to follow a large part of the crunch time with foul problems from the bank.
“Basketball is much more fun when the ball goes through the net,” Wagner admitted after the game, “But honestly, I don’t really care at the moment” It’s understandable – after the close win over Florida State, Michigan are in the Final Four for the first time since 2013.
After a balanced first half the Wolverines came back from the cabin a little better, with a 7:0-run they set themselves apart from the Seminoles for the first time. Two and a half minutes before the end, the Number 3 seed even had a 10-point lead, but that was far from it.
Florida State kept sending the Wolverines to the free-throw line, where the Big Ten champion showed nerves. FSU fought back thanks to Phil Cofer (16 points, 11 rebounds) and P.J., among others. Savoy (12 points) was back within striking distance with an 8:1 run, but they could no longer turn the game.
Zavier Simpson pocketed the decisive free throws for Michigan with confidence, the Seminoles’ last attempt only landed on the ring. Simpson grabbed the rebound, FSU stopped fouling and the game was over. The Guard scored a total of 9 points and 5 assists, the best pitcher for the Wolverines was Charles Matthews with 17 points (plus 8 rebounds).
However, an offensive fireworks display did not burn down Michigan by a long shot. We did a great job in the defense,” said Michigan coach John Beilein, who was particularly pleased with the way his team FSU defended triplets (23.5 percent from downtown) and basket drives (32 percent FG).