Michigan Holds On for 67-63 Win at TCU
FORT WORTH, Texas — No. 6 Michigan survived a tough road test at TCU on Friday night, pulling away late to beat the Horned Frogs 67-63. The game lived up to its pre-game hype, featuring key contributions from transfer forwards Yaxel Lendeborg and Morez Johnson Jr., both of whom posted double-doubles and helped Michigan weather a late surge from the host program.
Double-Double Delights for Lendeborg and Johnson Jr.
Lendeborg, a transfer from UAB, finished with 14 points and 10 rebounds, anchoring Michigan’s frontcourt and providing the push Michigan needed on the boards. Johnson Jr., who joined the Wolverines from Illinois, matched the team’s intensity with a double-double of his own, recording 12 points and 11 rebounds. The duo’s inside presence helped Michigan control the paint and limit second-chance opportunities for TCU late in the game.
Key Moments in a Tight Second Half
The game remained close through the opening minutes of the second half, with neither team able to pull away. Michigan used a late scoring burst to create a small but crucial cushion, then withstood TCU’s rally effort as the clock wound down. Michigan’s defense tightened in the final five minutes, contesting shots and forcing misses at critical junctures. The absence of a dominant run from either side only amplified the significance of each possession in the closing stretch.
Backcourt Balance and Bench contributions
Beyond the double-doubles, Michigan benefited from balanced guard play and solid role-player contributions. The backcourt combined for steady scoring, while the bench provided timely minutes to spell the starters. This balance was essential on a night when the shooting percentages hovered around average and turnovers became a deciding factor in a game that could have tipped either way.
What This Win Means for Michigan
Securing a road win against a quality non-conference opponent reinforces Michigan’s top-10 status and demonstrates resilience when the offense isn’t firing on all cylinders. With two high-impact transfers delivering big numbers, the Wolverines showed depth and adaptability, traits that will be vital as they navigate a demanding early-season schedule. The win also offers a positive signal to the national rankings and to fans who are looking for a seamless integration of the new pieces into an already talented roster.
What to Watch Next
Michigan will look to build on this performance as they head into a challenging stretch of games that tests both their perimeter shooting and interior defense. Coaches will likely emphasize rebounding discipline and ball security in practice, knowing that close games like this one can hinge on a few critical possessions. For fans, the pairing of Lendeborg and Johnson Jr. provides a blueprint for how Michigan can maximize its depth and maintain a competitive edge when need be.
Notes: This recap reflects the November 14, 2025 game in Fort Worth, Texas, where Michigan earned a 67-63 victory over TCU thanks to standout performances from transfer forwards.
