Michigan's Young Squad Falters Against Veteran Lithuanian Side
The University of Michigan men's basketball team traveled to Vilnius for a summer exhibition, only to watch a 28‑year‑old Lithuanian roster overturn a 14‑point halftime deficit and claim a 96‑84 victory.
Michigan had surged to a 56‑44 lead at the break, fueled by a 24‑19 first quarter and a 32‑25 second‑quarter stretch that put them ahead by double digits. Brandon McCoy Jr. and Oscar Goodman helped the Wolverines build that cushion, with Elliot Cadeau orchestrating the offense.
The second half told a different story. Lithuania outscored Michigan 52‑28, erasing the gap with a relentless run that began when Marcus Møller hit a three‑pointer and continued as the Lithuanian big men dominated the paint.
Quinn Costello led the Wolverines with 17 points, including five three‑pointers, while Trey McKenney added 15. Costello’s late three‑pointer trimmed the margin, but a final 15‑0 burst sealed the win for the visitors.
Statistically, Michigan recorded 21 assists and 13 steals, with Cadeau dishing out a team‑high seven. Brandon McCoy Jr. finished with 14 points, five rebounds and four steals, and Oscar Goodman contributed nine points, six rebounds and four takeaways.
The age disparity was stark: Lithuania’s average age hovered around 28, roughly seven years older than the Wolverines, a factor that seemed to give the Lithuanian side a composure in crunch moments.
A Quick Turnaround in Utena
Michigan will not have much time to reflect, as they meet the Lithuania B Team in Utena on August 24 at 6:30 p.m. local time (11:30 a.m. ET). The match will take place at the Arena Vilnius, a venue that witnessed the earlier showdown.
Coach Mike Smith and his staff hope the experience gained from the Lithuanian veteran squad will translate into sharper execution against the younger but hungry B team. The Wolverines will look to tighten their defense, which generated eight steals in the first half, and to convert their three‑point opportunities more efficiently.
For the University of Michigan, the loss serves as a valuable lesson in handling high‑tempo, experienced opposition, and the upcoming game offers a chance to apply those insights on the road.