Michigan vs. WKU: A Clash of Pace and Persistence

The NET-Unlucky Wolverines

Michigan's nonconference record may not tell the whole story. Despite their proximity to a perfect record, five-point losses to Arkansas and Oklahoma linger as Q2 losses outside the NET top-50.

With a marquee win over Xavier as their only shining moment, the Wolverines find themselves in a precarious position. A loss to WKU could fuel Q4 loss concerns.

WKU: The Drunken Masters

Hank Plona's WKU team may not look like a bottom-160 team, but injuries are piling up, and their style of play resembles a bar brawl after last call.

With a roster assembled primarily from JUCO transfers, Plona's players embody chaos and unpredictability. Their tendency to careen towards the basket with abandon results in frequent off-balance shots and bewildering defensive schemes.

The US

Despite their lack of efficient outside shooting, Michigan's dominance in the paint was evident in their blowout win over Purdue Fort Wayne.

The absence of McHenry's signature hairstyle brings a sense of loss, but the team's unwavering focus remains on making shots.

The THEM

WKU's dangerman, Don McHenry, is a point-sized volume shooter with an uncanny ability to create scoring opportunities.

Other key players include: Braxton Bayless, the pace-setting point guard; Khristian Lander, a one-time blue-chip recruit struggling to find consistency; Tyrone Marshall, a defensive presence and efficient finisher; and Babacar Faye, a perimeter-threatening switcher whose status remains uncertain due to injury.

The Tempo Free

WKU's high tempo, fueled by their lack of assists and turnovers, led to a chaotic playstyle that played better at home than on the road.

The Keys

For Michigan to secure victory, they must: make shots, relentlessly defend McHenry, dominate the paint, and rely on their bench for support.

The Prediction

Kenpom predicts a win for Michigan by 16 points. However, the potential for chaos in this matchup makes any outcome possible.