Despite the plane troubles that set them back earlier in the week, Michigan was able to soar over their competition in the Big Ten Tournament, totaling four wins for the program’s first* conference tournament title.
[*Technically, it’s the program’s second title. They won the inaugural conference tournament back in 1998, but it was eventually vacated by the NCAA.]
Going in, Michigan appeared to be safely in the tournament, even had they lost their opening game. But four impressive wins not only solidified their bid, but also improved their standing with the Selection Committee.
When the NCAA Tournament bracket was revealed, Michigan was awarded a 7-seed for their outstanding run in Washington D.C. this week.
LET'S DANCE!!!!!#GoBlue #SelectionSunday pic.twitter.com/EEmkWM0Uzf
— Michigan Men's Basketball (@umichbball) March 12, 2017
#Michigan is a #7 seed in the Midwest Region playing #10 Oklahoma State on Friday.
— Rico Beard (@RicoBeard) March 12, 2017
Now…#GoBlue #SelectionSunday pic.twitter.com/e9xSRBJ9r5
— Michigan Men's Basketball (@umichbball) March 12, 2017
Since losing at home to Big Ten cellar-dweller Ohio State back in early February, the Wolverines closed out the season winning 10 of their final 12 games, six of which were by double-figures. They are, without question, playing their best basketball at the right time.
Meanwhile, Michigan’s rivals in East Lansing were hoping for better fortune in results. The Spartans have seemingly been on the bubble, albeit on the right side of it, for a couple months it seems. The Committee ultimately deemed them worthy enough of an at-large, awarding MSU a 9-seed.
Michigan State the No. 9 in the Midwest. Will face No. 8 Miami in Tulsa on Friday
— Matt Charboneau (@mattcharboneau) March 12, 2017
Michigan State comes in as a No. 9 seed facing No. 8 Miami.
Kansas looms.— Brendan Quinn (@BFQuinn) March 12, 2017
