# SEC Men's Basketball: Michigan Wolverines Defeats Alabama Crimson Tide 90-77 **Published:** 2026-03-27 — **By:** Bailey Patterson **Category:** games — **Type:** game-recap **Source:** https://secscouts.com/news/michigan-defeats-alabama-mens-basketball-90-77 **Teams:** [Alabama](https://secscouts.com/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. --- *Original article: [SEC Men's Basketball: Michigan Wolverines Defeats Alabama Crimson Tide 90-77](https://secscouts.com/news/michigan-defeats-alabama-mens-basketball-90-77) — SEC Scouts*