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Xavier Falls to Michigan in Tough Loss at Fort Myers
By
Musketeer Madness,
11/28/2024
The Xavier men’s basketball team suffered their first defeat of the season, falling 78-53 to Michigan in the Suncoast Credit Union Arena. The loss brings the Musketeers’ record to 6-1, while Michigan improved to the same mark, showcasing their dominance on both ends of the court. Michigan’s efficient offense and defensive pressure left Xavier struggling to find rhythm throughout the game.
Xavier started the game competitively, briefly holding a two-point lead early in the first half. However, Michigan’s shooting clinic quickly shifted the momentum. The Wolverines shot an impressive 47.1% from the field in the first half, including 53.8% from beyond the arc, while Xavier’s 40.7% shooting was hampered by missed opportunities at the free-throw line. Michigan entered halftime with a commanding 41-30 lead.
The second half proved even more challenging for the Musketeers as Michigan extended their lead to as many as 25 points. Michigan’s Danny Wolf and Vladislav Goldin led the charge with 20 and 18 points, respectively. Wolf also grabbed 14 rebounds, completing a dominant double-double. The Wolverines’ three-point shooting remained a critical factor, as they finished the game hitting 50% of their attempts from deep.
Xavier’s offense struggled to keep pace, shooting only 34.5% from the field and a meager 55.6% from the free-throw line. Ryan Conwell led the team with 19 points, including five three-pointers, but his efforts were not enough to offset Michigan’s balanced attack. Zach Freemantle contributed a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds, but the team was unable to establish a consistent offensive flow.
The Musketeers also faced challenges on the boards and in the paint, where Michigan outscored them 38-20. Additionally, Michigan’s second-chance opportunities, totaling 12 points, further widened the gap. While Xavier forced Michigan into 11 turnovers, the Wolverines’ ability to convert on key possessions kept the Musketeers at bay.
Despite the loss, Xavier will look to regroup and build on the early success of their season. With their next matchup on the horizon, the Musketeers have an opportunity to refocus and strengthen their defensive and offensive strategies. For Michigan, the victory marks another step in a strong start to the 2024-25 season, as they continue to display their prowess as a top-tier team.
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