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Can Michigan Wolverines' Fast Break Dominate USC Trojans Again at Crisler Center?

The Michigan Wolverines showcased their dominance in a commanding 96-66 victory over the USC Trojans, improving their record to 2-0. The game, held at the Crisler Center, saw the Maize and Blue take control early and maintain their lead throughout both halves. The Trojans now stand at 1-1 after this encounter.


Jan 2, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Michigan Wolverines guard Roddy Gayle Jr. (11) dunks on Southern California Trojans forward Jaden Brownell (33) in the first half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

First Half


The first half set the tone for Michigan's impressive performance. With a strong start, they scored 49 points while limiting SC to just 31. A key factor was Michigan's fast break efficiency, contributing significantly to their lead with an impressive 26 fast break points overall. Nimari Burnett played a pivotal role in this period with his defensive prowess, recording multiple steals that led to quick transitions.


Second Half


In the second half, Michigan continued their offensive onslaught by adding another 47 points. Yaxel Lendeborg stood out with his defensive contributions and three blocks that stifled any attempt by SC to close the gap. The Wolverines' bench also made a significant impact by contributing 44 points in total.


Jan 2, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Michigan Wolverines forward Morez Johnson Jr. (21) dunks in the first half against the Southern California Trojans at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Key Players


Aday Mara was instrumental for Michigan with his presence inside the paint, scoring efficiently and securing rebounds that helped maintain possession for his team. Meanwhile, Elliot Cadeau orchestrated plays effectively as he dished out several assists that kept SC's defense on its toes.


On the other side of court action during this matchup between these two teams from different coasts - USC struggled offensively despite efforts from Ezra Ausar who tried hard but couldn't bridge gaps created earlier due largely because of turnovers which resulted into easy baskets against them time after again throughout entire duration until final whistle blew signaling end result favoring home side comfortably indeed!


Jan 2, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Michigan Wolverines forward Morez Johnson Jr. (21) shoots on Southern California Trojans forward Ezra Ausar (2) in the first half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

As fans look forward eagerly towards next fixture involving beloved squad; they'll be keenly anticipating how things unfold when they face off against Penn State Nittany Lions away from home come January sixth starting seven PM Eastern Time live broadcasted via Fox Sports One channel directly onto screens everywhere across nation wide audience tuning into catch all excitement firsthand themselves without missing single moment whatsoever guaranteed absolutely sure thing indeed so don't miss chance join conversation share thoughts opinions insights experiences related topic matter discussed herein today right now immediately following conclusion article itself!

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