Game Summary: Michigan Holds Off TCU in Fort Worth
In a closely fought non-conference showdown, No. 6 Michigan secured a 67-63 victory over TCU in Fort Worth on Friday night. The Wolverines leaned on a strong performance from their transfer forwards, with Yaxel Lendeborg and Morez Johnson Jr. delivering a pair of double-doubles that helped carve out the difference in a game that stayed tight down the stretch.
Key Performances: Lendeborg and Johnson Jr. Step Up
Yaxel Lendeborg, the transfer from UAB, posted 14 points and 10 rebounds, providing Michigan with a reliable inside presence and second-chance opportunities. His ability to crash the boards and finish around the rim gave the Wolverines momentum when the Horned Frogs were pressing for a run.
Morez Johnson Jr., who arrived from Illinois, complemented Lendeborg with a double-double of his own. While the final stat line was not fully disclosed in the game summary, Johnson Jr. contributed on the glass and in scoring, illustrating Michigan’s versatility on the frontcourt. Together, the pair supplied Michigan with a balance of paint defense and interior scoring that proved pivotal in a game decided in the final minutes.
Team Notes: Michigan’s Path to Victory
Michigan built a lead in the first half and navigated a series of TCU runs as the home team rallied. The Wolverines’ defense forced crucial stops late in the game, allowing them to maintain a lead as the clock dwindled. Ball handling and decision-making under pressure were essential, helping Michigan convert key possessions and keep the scoreboard in their favor despite a competitive effort from TCU.
TCU’s Fight: Staying Within Striking Distance
TCU fought hard throughout, leveraging home-court energy and a disciplined game plan. The Horned Frogs executed well on offense when opportunities appeared and battled to close gaps in the second half. The outcome underscored Michigan’s ability to respond to adversity, as the Frogs challenged the Wolverines with a late push but could not overcome the two-double-double effort from Michigan’s frontcourt duo.
What It Means Going Forward
Friday night’s win delivers another marquee road victory for a top-10 program and offers tangible momentum as Michigan transitions into a demanding portion of its schedule. The contributions from Lendeborg and Johnson Jr. provide a blueprint for depth and versatility, showing that Michigan can rely on multiple players to produce when a game is on the line. For TCU, the setback emphasizes the importance of consistency across the lineup and the need to maximize opportunities when Michigan’s defense tightens in late possessions.
Final Thoughts
The 67-63 result adds another chapter to Michigan’s growing non-conference résumé, highlighting the impact of transfer players who have quickly integrated with the program. As both teams evaluate film and prepare for their next challenges, fans can expect continued high-level competition and more moments where the depth and resilience of Michigan’s roster are tested and proven.
