Michigan Upsets UCLA: Bring on Duke (Just Kidding!)

Did you hear the doorbell? I think somebody is knocking? Who is it?

It's the Michigan men's basketball program, back from obscurity. Just in time for the holidays!

Yes, John Beilein, who is from West Virgina and led Michigan to its program-high 22 loses last year (doesn't that sound familiar? I know I have heard something like that before), upset No. 4-ranked UCLA last night in Madison Square Garden, 55-52. Michigan stopped a 12-game losing streak to Top 25 opponents, and this was the first time since 1997 that it beat a top-five team.

The Wolverines were lead by game MVP DeShawn Sims, who had 18 points, followed by Manny Harris, with 15. The real star of the game was Michigan's 1-3-1 defensive zone, which confused UCLA and forced the Bruins into deep outside shots most of the game. UCLA is full of talent, but most of its players are young freshmen due to the big losses to the NBA last year. I expect UCLA to be pretty good, but the Bruins clearly didn't play their best game on Thursday night.

So what did Michigan get for this big win? Duke, tonight in the championship game. As well as Duke again at Crisler Arena on Dec. 6. Wow, thanks, Duke: twice in two weeks, at least give them a T-shirt or something!

This was a great win for the Wolverines and a true statement for coach Beilein and staff that their hard work is starting to pay off. This doesn't make the Wolverines a lock for the NCAA Tournament or even a contender in the Big Ten, but it does show this program is on the right track and will be competitive in every game it plays this year. Michigan basketball is back!

Now, all you students and fans, make sure you make a B-Line to Crisler Arena this winter to support this team!