The Ohio St. Buckeyes looked like they might be upset by the Michigan Wolverines on Sunday afternoon after barely making their way to a three-point halftime lead, but Thad Matta's team turned on the jets in the second half. Lenzelle Smith Jr. scored a game-high 17 points as the Buckeyes cruised to a 64-49 victory at home.
Michigan Vs. Ohio State: Buckeyes Blossom In Second Half On Way To Victory
Michigan had a chance to swing momentum in its favor late in the second half, but Zack Novak's offensive putback was blocked by Jared Sullinger before the Ohio State big man ran the court and threw down a dunk on the other end to give the Buckeyes a 54-43 lead they'd never relinquish.
Smith scored 17 points and grabbed 12 rebounds -- eight on the offensive end -- as one of four Ohio State starters to score in double figures. Sullinger chipped in 13, including the aforementioned momentum-shifting dunk,while Deshaun Thomas and William Buford chipped in 12 points apiece.
The Wolverines were led by a different Junior as Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 15 points, but it wasn't enough to offset Smith's contributions on the other side of the court. Fellow Michigan starter Trey Burke scored 13 points and dished five assists, but also contributed five of the team's 13 total turnovers.
For more on the Wolverines, be sure to check out Maize N Brew. For more on the Buckeyes, check out Along the Olentangy. SB Nation’s college basketball hub has everything covered relating to the NCAA roundball world.
See More:
