The Michigan Wolverines finally secured an overtime victory after 23 months of frustration. This win comes as part of a broader issue that has plagued the team over the past three seasons: their inability to perform in close games. Over 38 percent of their matches since 2022-23 have been decided by six points or fewer, with only nine wins out of 32 such contests. The new head coach, Dusty May, faces the challenge of addressing this critical weakness if he hopes to fully revitalize the program. This article explores three key areas where improvements are needed: identifying a go-to player for clutch moments, improving free-throw shooting, and avoiding close games altogether.

The Need for a Clutch Player

In many tight contests, having a standout player who can deliver under pressure is crucial. The Wolverines lack a clear leader to take control in these situations. While Danny Wolf's playmaking ability stands out, his tendency to turn the ball over poses a significant risk. Tre Donaldson, despite his solid three-point shooting, has yet to consistently rise to the occasion when the game is on the line. Vlad Goldin has shown promise but is increasingly being targeted by opposing defenses. The absence of a reliable clutch player means multiple players often attempt to take the final shot, leading to inconsistent results.

Identifying a single player to handle critical moments could provide much-needed stability. However, the current roster does not seem to have a natural fit for this role. Danny Wolf's creativity is undeniable, but his turnover rate is concerning. Tre Donaldson excels from beyond the arc but struggles to deliver in high-pressure situations. Vlad Goldin has had some success but is facing increasing defensive attention. The team must find a way to either develop one of these players into a reliable option or adjust their strategy to better manage end-game scenarios.

Improving Free-Throw Shooting and Situational Play

Poor free-throw shooting has become a recurring problem for the Wolverines. After ranking in the top 100 for two consecutive seasons, they have dropped to 176th nationally this year, converting just 72.1 percent of their attempts. In close games, every point matters, and missed free throws can be the difference between a win and a loss. Players like Donaldson and Wolf, who struggle at the line, further complicate matters. Protecting leads becomes significantly harder when teams can easily score off fouls.

To avoid narrow losses, the Wolverines must focus on situational play—minimizing turnovers and maintaining defensive discipline. Many of their defeats have come from second-half collapses, often due to untimely mistakes. Improving in these areas will not only help them secure more wins but also build confidence in tight situations. Ultimately, reducing the number of close games through consistent performance throughout the contest should be a priority. By addressing these issues, Coach May can set the foundation for a more resilient and successful team moving forward.