March 9, 2006

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INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Maurice Hargrow scored 15 points and Zach Puchtel added a career-high 15 rebounds as Minnesota defeated Michigan 59-55 on Thursday afternoon in the first round of the Big Ten tournament.

Dion Harris led Michigan with 16 points and Daniel Horton had 14.

The Golden Gophers snapped a three-game losing streak and dealt a severe blow to Michigan's NCAA Tournament hopes.

Minnesota (15-13) led 54-50 heading into the final minute, but made just 5 of 12 free throws down the stretch.

Minnesota's' Vincent Grier scored all 11 of his points in the second half. The Golden Gophers advanced to play Iowa in a Friday quarterfinal.

Michigan (18-10) is considered on the bubble for an NCAA Tournament bid. The Wolverines entered the game ranked 37th in the Ratings Percentage Index, making them a possible at-large team. Michigan has lost seven of its last nine games, a problem since the tournament selection committee traditionally weighs recent history heavily.

Michigan jumped out to a 7-0 lead and led 20-12 midway through the first half. The Golden Gophers cut into the margin and trailed 27-23 at halftime. Minnesota had 12 turnovers at the break, but Michigan didn't capitalize.

Grier didn't score until 15:30 remained in the game. His first bucket tied the game at 31.

Minnesota took its first lead on two Hargrow free throws with 14:45 left to put the Golden Gophers up 33-31. Minnesota increased its lead to 47-38 on a dunk by Dan Coleman, and never trailed again.