March Madness Bracket 2011: Why Michigan Are No Longer Bottom of the Big Ten

Ever since the "Fab Five" penalty and punishment, I wondered when I would be excited to watch Michigan Basketball again.

The program teased us two years ago with a win in the first round and a blowout loss to Blake Griffin and Oklahoma.

Today, the team lost to a No. 1 seed, Duke, by two points, with an open jumper from the lane that just was a touch too long.

If you think about it, Michigan's last three losses are on a banked three-pointer to Wisconsin, a tournament loss to the No. 1 team in the nation and  No. 1 seed Duke. That's not too bad!

Michigan gave Duke everything they could and more.

I would have preferred if TH2 or Zack had sunk a three-point shot for the win, but I can't complain about the open look that Morris took. That was a good look and a shot that he's hit a hundred times.

This team fought hard from start to finish and worked their way back from being 15 points down and in foul trouble for most of the game.

My only complaint was the constant interruptions made by the referees. At times it seemed as if they couldn't stop blowing their whistle.

Can't they just let the kids play and let the "nickel-dimers" go?

Nevertheless, in spite of todays loss, I feel this program is finally back on solid ground and heading in the right direction.

I hope all recuits are noticing that something special is happening in Ann Arbor and that the future is bright for these young Wolverines.

The team is no longer a group of misfits and toys—this is a team that's just a backup point guard and a big man away from challenging for Big Ten championships. 

So, well done to Michigan and congratulations on a great year.

I have a feeling people won't be projecting you in the basement of the Big Ten next year.