Alabama
CHICAGO, Ill. (03/26/2026) — The Alabama Crimson Tide's season concluded Thursday night in Chicago, as a cold-shooting second half proved decisive in a 90-77 loss to the Michigan Wolverines. Despite a heroic 35-point effort from guard Labaron Philon Jr., Alabama could not sustain its first-half offensive pace, seeing its halftime lead evaporate against a more physical and efficient Michigan squad.
How It Happened
The game began as a high-octane shootout, with Alabama racing out to an early lead on the strength of its perimeter shooting. Forward Aiden Sherrell ignited the offense, connecting on a 25-foot three-pointer at the 18:49 mark and another at 16:16 to help build a quick 11-2 advantage for the Crimson Tide. The first half featured 11 lead changes and ties as both teams traded offensive blows. Michigan guard Trey McKenney answered Alabama's barrage with back-to-back threes of his own, giving the Wolverines their first lead, 14-13, with 13:43 on the clock.
Philon Jr. took control for Alabama, scoring from all levels and keeping the Crimson Tide ahead. A three-pointer from London Jemison with 7:45 left in the half extended Alabama's lead to 31-26. However, Michigan closed the half strong, with guard Roddy Gayle Jr. hitting consecutive three-pointers to put the Wolverines up 46-41. Two late free throws from Philon Jr. sent Alabama into the locker room with a slim 49-47 lead after a blistering offensive half from both sides.
Turning Point
The game's complexion changed entirely in the opening moments of the second half. Michigan's Yaxel Lendeborg drained a 24-foot three-pointer just 51 seconds in, giving the Wolverines a 50-49 lead they would not relinquish. That shot kicked off a dominant final 20 minutes for Michigan, which controlled the pace, the paint, and the perimeter.
While Michigan shot a blistering 50% from the field and 48% from deep for the game, Alabama's offense stalled, connecting on just 36% of its field goals. The Wolverines asserted their size advantage, winning the rebounding battle decisively, 46-32. The Crimson Tide, after scoring 49 points in the first half, managed only 28 in the second, unable to find an answer for Michigan's balanced attack and defensive adjustments.
Star of the Game
Yaxel Lendeborg was the catalyst for the Michigan Wolverines, delivering a masterful all-around performance. The forward finished with 23 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists, narrowly missing a triple-double. He impacted every facet of the game, scoring efficiently, creating for his teammates, and dominating the glass. His go-ahead three-pointer to open the second half set the tone for Michigan's victory.
For Alabama, Labaron Philon Jr. was spectacular in a losing effort. The guard shouldered the offensive load, pouring in a game-high 35 points while adding 7 rebounds and 4 assists. He was relentless in attacking the basket and kept the Crimson Tide afloat for much of the contest.
What It Means
The loss marks the end of the 2026 season for the Alabama Crimson Tide. The game was a microcosm of their campaign: an explosive, fast-paced offense capable of scoring in bunches, but one that struggled for consistency against physical, disciplined opponents. The performance from Philon Jr. offers a bright spot to build on, but the second-half collapse highlights areas for improvement moving forward.
For the Michigan Wolverines, the victory was a testament to their resilience and depth. With four players scoring in double figures, led by Lendeborg's versatility, they demonstrated the formula that has made them a tough opponent. Their ability to lock down defensively in the second half and control the boards proved to be the difference as they advance.