- Michigan upsets No. 15 Maryland 98-71 in Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals
- Three Wolverines combine for 65 points, led by Jordan Hobbs’ 23
- 25-0 first-half run propels Michigan to early dominance
- Wolverines shoot 61% from field, including 12 three-pointers
- Team advances to face No. 2 USC in semifinal rematch
The Michigan Wolverines delivered a masterclass in offensive efficiency Friday, dismantling 15th-ranked Maryland with a 98-71 victory in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals. Freshmen Syla Swords and Olivia Olson joined junior Jordan Hobbs in an electrifying scoring display, combining for 65 points in what became Michigan’s most dominant conference tournament performance in recent memory.
Michigan’s decisive 25-0 first-half run fundamentally changed the game’s trajectory. The Wolverines held Maryland scoreless for nearly nine minutes while converting 10 consecutive field goals. Hobbs and Olson each contributed 10 points during this pivotal stretch, showcasing their ability to perform under tournament pressure. This offensive explosion marked Michigan’s largest scoring run against a ranked opponent since 2018.
Despite Maryland’s 16-0 response to narrow the gap to 41-37 at halftime, Michigan’s second-half adjustments proved decisive. The Wolverines outscored Maryland 57-34 after intermission, shooting a remarkable 68% from the field in the final two quarters. This performance underscores Michigan’s growing reputation as a second-half team, having now outscored opponents by 15+ points in six of their last eight games.
The victory sets up a high-stakes semifinal clash against No. 2 USC, marking Michigan’s first appearance in the Big Ten semifinals since 2021. Historical trends favor defensive-minded teams in conference tournament play, but Michigan’s unique blend of veteran leadership and freshman scoring prowess could challenge conventional wisdom. The Wolverines will need to improve their perimeter defense against USC’s elite backcourt, having allowed 85 points in their December matchup.
Regional basketball analysts note Michigan’s 61% shooting percentage represents the highest by any Big Ten team in tournament history against a ranked opponent. This offensive efficiency, combined with their 12 three-pointers, suggests schematic improvements under first-year assistant coach LaTroy Smith. The Wolverines’ ability to maintain this production against USC’s top-10 defense could determine their NCAA tournament seeding prospects.