6 takeaways from Michigan’s Round of 64 win vs Howard
It wasn’t a perfect performance, but Michigan moved on in the NCAA Tournament thanks to a second-half surge from its front court. Here are some takeaways from the win:
Mar 19, 2026; Buffalo, NY, USA; Michigan Wolverines forward Morez Johnson Jr. (21) dunks the ball against Howard Bison forward Travelle Bryson (32) during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images | Mark Konezny-Imagn Images The 1-seed Michigan Wolverines beat the 16-seed Howard Bison, 101-80, in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Thursday night in Buffalo, New York.
It wasn’t a perfect performance by any means, but Michigan moved on with a second half surge, earning a date with either Georgia or Saint Louis in the Round of 32 on Saturday. Here are six takeaways from the game. Three-point shooting sets a fast game pace From the opening tip, both teams came out firing from deep, turning the first half into a perimeter showcase.
Michigan combined to go 7-for-13 from beyond the arc, with Nimari Burnett, Roddy Gayle Jr. and Trey McKenney all connecting early to help the Wolverines build and sustain their lead. But Howard more than matched that energy.
Cam Gillus was a one-man highlight reel, knocking down three straight threes on 4-for-4 shooting for 13 first-half points. Cedric Taylor III added three triples of his own for 14 points, while Bryce Harris chipped in with two first half threes for 12 total points. The Bison finished the half shooting 10-for-16 from three – tying their total against UMBC in the First Four in half the time – keeping the margin from ever feeling safe despite Michigan’s size and depth advantages.
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