Michigan squandered a big lead early, chances late, narrow loss to Arkansas

new York – Michigan had a chance to solidify its massive jump into the national rankings in the mecca of basketball.

Instead, cold water was poured on the No. 14 Wolverines in a wild game at Madison Square Garden that came down to the final possession.

After blowing a 15-point first-half lead, Michigan was unable to mount a comeback from an 18-point deficit in the second half and missed a potential tying shot in an 89-87 loss to Arkansas on Tuesday at Jimmy -Classic.

Vlad Goldin had 17 points, leading five double-digit scorers for Michigan (8-2), which shot 57.6% from the field but had 17 turnovers. Danny Wolf added 14 points, nine rebounds and nine assists, while Roddy Gayle Jr. had 13 points and missed a potential equalizer on the final play of the game.

After Michigan led by as many as 15 points, that lead was wiped out by a poor finish to the first half and a poor start to the second half. A combination of turnovers, lackluster defensive rebounds and a 12-0 Arkansas outscore led to Michigan trailing 57-49 about four minutes after halftime.