I went to the game. I really think we played very good defense overall. We were focused & intense from the opening tip. We did not let Michigan have many open 3s. That was a big reason they went 4-18 on 3s in the first half. However, we didn't play very smart basketball in the first half. Curtis & Shaq keep forcing drives, as Michigan bigs sat back & waited for them & blocked the shot or just took it away. I could tell that they had scouted us very well. We had too many turnovers. We played nervous rather than loose. We created more wide open shots than Michigan did, we just did not convert.
I was really impressed that we came out strong in the 2nd half. Shaq drove...then dished beautifully to Swanny for a layup. That play showed a real halftime adjustment for our side. Shaq, Swanny & Smith really played hard & played very well last night. Smith played one of his best games on one of the biggest stages. I am happy for him. In pregame interviews, Woodard & Shaq talked about being very happy we made it to the dance. BUT, Shaq said he wasn't satisfied with just being there, he wanted to win. Shaq played the game like he meant what he said. You could tell he was determined to win the game. He played so well, that he almost carried us to the win by himself. Swanny brought attitude, especially with that block to start the second half. I also thought Ray played very hard & very well in some ways...great defense, good point guard play, good hustle, he just couldn't hit a shot. Woodard just plays a relaxed style, that can look very bad if he's not hitting shots. I thought he finally stepped up his pace late, but the shots still weren't dropping. Birt looked very frustrated. I credit Michigan's coach with good game planning on Birt.
Michigan was more athletic in person than advertised. They definitely had the size advantage, but we had the speed & quickness advantage. They have guards that will step up & hit the mid range jumper when it is available. We denied the 3 very well, so they took the mid range shots. They also drive better than advertised. Michigan has a good team, but I really think we are just as good. I am disappointed, knowing that we coulda, shoulda won that game.
BTW, be thankful for the Reynolds Center. Yes, Dayton's arena is larger (13,500 capacity). However, it is an older building with horrible internet service & no detailed stats on screens like we have. Dayton does have lots of loyal & friendly fans.
One last thought. Tulsa is now 0-3 with me attending NCAA games : 1982 loss vs.the Phi Slamma Jamma Cougars at the Mabee Center, 2000 elite 8 loss in Austin against North Carolina & now the 2016 loss vs Michigan. I will now volunteer to stay away from our next NCAA game, as long as some of you go in my place !
