Minnesota Team Rankings: Asuma, Reynolds & Top Players 2024

Ann Arbor, MI – No. 3 Michigan clinched at least a share of the Big Ten title Tuesday night with a 77-67 victory over a shorthanded Minnesota team at Crisler Arena, despite a strong offensive showing from the Gophers.

Cade Tyson led Minnesota with 20 points, connecting on 5 of 10 three-pointers. Langston Reynolds added 15 points, while Isaac Asuma and Bobby Durkin each contributed 12. Still, the Gophers struggled from the free-throw line, going 0-for-1 in the first half and ultimately unable to overcome a second-half surge by the Wolverines.

Michigan pulled away in the second half, making nine three-pointers after halftime. The Wolverines’ offensive push included a 19-5 run that effectively sealed the win, building on a narrow 32-28 halftime lead. Minnesota, playing its fourth consecutive game without starting forward Jaylen Crocker-Johnson, managed to stay within striking distance for a portion of the second half, trailing 51-47 with 10:19 remaining, but couldn’t withstand the Michigan attack.

Tyson’s 20-point performance marked the 12th time this season he has reached that scoring threshold. He finished 6-of-13 from the field and a perfect 3-for-3 from the free-throw line, also leading or tying for the team lead in rebounding for the fourth straight game. Reynolds also contributed with six rebounds.

Despite the loss, Minnesota demonstrated offensive versatility, with four players scoring in double figures. Isaac Asuma was 4-of-7 from beyond the arc, finishing with 18 points in the Gophers’ most recent game against Northwestern on February 22nd, where Minnesota won 84-78. In that game, Reynolds flirted with a triple-double, recording 13 points, 13 assists, and six rebounds.

Michigan’s victory secures at least a share of their first Big Ten title since 2021. The Wolverines’ success came despite a quiet night from preseason All-America forward Yaxel Lendeborg, who was held to a season-low three points, and center Morez Johnson, who scored just six.

Minnesota will next face UCLA on Saturday, February 28th, at 1:00 PM.