CBB: Wolverines win third straight, survive scare from Northwestern

Michigan slipped past Northwestern 72-70 after blowing a double digit lead in the second half on Wednesday night at the Crisler Center. The Wolverines are now on 3-game winning streak since losing back to back Big Ten matchups. Caleb Houstan scored a game-high 18 points on 71.4% shooting from the field in the recent home win. Northwestern trailed 48-37 early in the second half before going on a 14-3 run to tie the game. DeVante' Jones knocked down four free throws in the final minute to give Michigan the lead and Julian Roper's game-winning attempt fell short at the buzzer.

Jones finished with 15 points and six assists, while Hunter Dickinson had nine points and five rebounds before fouling out with just over two minutes remaining. The game completely slowed down midway through the second half with 26 fouls called following halftime and 46 fouls throughout. Three players fouled out including Moussa Diabate, who had eight points and seven rebounds in limited playing time. Pete Nance led the Wildcats with 14 points, six rebounds and four assists. Boo Buie and Ryan Young also had 13 points in the loss. Eli Brooks added 12 points after a slow start in the first half.

Houstan was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week after making eight 3-pointers in wins over Maryland and Indiana last week. He continued to look more comfortable, connecting on 3/5 attempts from beyond the arc including a 3-pointer to give the Wolverines a 68-65 lead with 1:38 left. Terrance Williams also knocked down a big 3-pointer, his only bucket of the game, to help Michigan hold off Northwestern. Juwan Howard's team improved to 10-7 and will travel to face rival Michigan State on Saturday afternoon. The Wildcats host first place Illinois next, who are fresh off a 56-55 win over the Spartans.

Photo Credit: USA Today.