“Obviously they beat us back in April, and obviously I had a chip on my shoulder,” Silas Demary Jr. said. UConn used that motivation to defeat Michigan 85-77 on Friday night at TD Garden in Boston, avenging last season’s NCAA championship loss, ESPN reported.
The Huskies (2-0) built a 13-point halftime lead and held off a late Wolverines surge to win the rematch of April’s title game. Michigan (1-1) closed to within eight points in the final minute before UConn sealed the victory at the free-throw line.
Backcourt Stars Lead UConn Past Michigan
Braylon Mullins scored 23 points on 12 shots and made 10 of 11 free throws, while Demary added 21 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Freshman Colben Landrew contributed 14 points and eight rebounds off the bench for UConn.
Demary, who scored only two points while dealing with a high ankle sprain in the April championship game, said he never rewatched that loss. “I think I was just able to come out here and play healthy, play my game and really showcase how effective I can be when I’m healthy at 100%,” he said.
Trey McKenney led Michigan with 22 points on 8-for-18 shooting, according to bristolpress.com. Elliot Cadeau, the Most Outstanding Player of last season’s Final Four, managed eight points on 3-for-11 shooting before fouling out. Michigan shot 7-for-28 from 3-point range, while UConn made nine 3-pointers and shot 42% from the field.
Coaches React to Early-Season Win
UConn coach Dan Hurley expressed satisfaction with the victory but noted the late Michigan rally. “We’re one of the best teams in the country at a game you should win by 15 and you win by eight,” Hurley said. “We’re great at that.”
Michigan coach Mike Boynton, in his first season after replacing Dusty May, acknowledged the step forward for his young team. “As I’ve said for two months now, this team isn’t defending a national championship,” Boynton said. “They’re trying to establish their own legacy. I think today was a great step forward.”
Boynton also praised Demary’s motivation, noting the guard’s individual performance in April’s championship game. “I’ve got a lot of respect for a guy who just puts his head down,” Boynton said.
UConn Hosts Wagner Monday, Michigan Faces Marquette Wednesday
UConn will host Wagner on Monday, while Michigan hosts Marquette on Wednesday, according to bristolpress.com. UConn will look to integrate returning players, including two-year starter Solo Ball, who is recovering from wrist surgery and could return in the coming weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Silas Demary Jr. score only two points in the April championship game?
Demary was dealing with a high ankle sprain during the NCAA final loss to Michigan and told reporters he never rewatched that game, ESPN reported.
Who is Michigan’s new head coach?
Mike Boynton Jr. took over as head coach this season after Dusty May left to coach the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks following last season’s title, bristolpress.com reported.
How did UConn build its halftime lead?
After a technical foul on the bench with just under five minutes left in the first half, UConn closed the period on an 11-2 run to take a 13-point lead, according to bristolpress.com.
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