What a historic moment for this Michigan basketball under coach Howard, winning its first game under coach Juwan Howard; a new era has begun.
Despite a 27-3 run at one point in the second half by Appalachian State and some terribly sloppy play by the Wolverines at the end, Michigan basketball hung on for a worrisome 79-71 victory.
Right out of the gate, it was apparent Appalachian State was not going to be able to match the skill, size, or athleticism on the opposing end of the court. There was a roster full of no stars and Mike Bibby’s son (Yes, that Mike Bibby, the longtime NBA player) pitted against three and four-star monsters who wouldn’t back down from a fight.