Danny Wolf powers Michigan to an 85-74 win over Southern California on Saturday night, showcasing his remarkable skills on the court with a season-high 21 points and 13 rebounds.
Wolf’s impressive performance included making 9 of 12 shots, which featured two successful 3-pointers. This victory marked his seventh double-double of the season for the Wolverines, who now hold a record of 11-3 and remain undefeated in Big Ten Conference play at 3-0. In addition to his scoring, Wolf contributed seven assists and achieved a personal best with six blocked shots.
Tre Donaldson and Nimari Burnett each added 16 points for Michigan, with Donaldson also dishing out six assists. Roddy Gayle Jr. contributed 12 points, while Vladislav Goldin chipped in with 11.
On the opposing side, Desmond Claude and Wesley Yates III led the Trojans with 19 points each. Claude also secured seven rebounds, while Kevin Patton Jr. added 14 points and Saint Thomas scored 10.
Burnett’s 13 points and Donaldson’s 12 were crucial for Michigan as they entered halftime with a 42-38 lead, thanks in part to their combined 7-of-8 shooting from beyond the arc.
The second half began with a jumper from Claude for USC, but Wolf quickly responded with four baskets, while Goldin added a three-point play and a dunk. This surge contributed to a 13-0 run for Michigan, extending their lead to 55-40 with 16 minutes left in the game.
Despite the Trojans rallying to take a 65-63 lead with a layup from Patton at 7:33, Michigan’s Gayle scored six points during a 10-0 run, pushing the Wolverines ahead 73-65 with just over five minutes remaining. Although USC managed to score six consecutive points, Goldin and Wolf responded with back-to-back baskets, sealing the victory with a final 10-0 run.
This matchup was notable as it marked the first meeting between the two programs since December 27, 1981, when the Trojans claimed a 77-63 victory in the Holiday Classic at the L.A. Sports Arena.
Michigan will remain in Los Angeles to face off against No. 15 UCLA on Tuesday, while USC is set to travel to Indiana for their next game on Wednesday.
