Vlad Goldin Powers Michigan Past Iowa with Dominant Double-Double Performance
Vlad Goldin delivered his first double-double in a Michigan uniform Saturday afternoon, posting 20 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Wolverines to a thrilling 85-83 victory over Iowa at the Crisler Center. The win extends Michigan's winning streak to seven games and improves their record to 8-1 (2-0 Big Ten).
Goldin's impact was felt throughout the game, particularly in the paint where Michigan held a commanding 24-14 advantage in the first half. His presence on the glass helped the Wolverines build a substantial 27-13 rebounding edge before halftime, contributing to their 12-4 lead in second-chance points.
The big man proved crucial during Michigan's second-half surge. After Iowa took their first lead at 45-44, Goldin's putback bucket not only regained the lead but sparked what would become a scorching offensive stretch for the Wolverines. During a critical five-minute span, Michigan made eight consecutive field goals, with Goldin's efficient finishing around the rim helping to maintain their momentum.
Michigan center Vlad Goldin takes a question at the podium during the 2024 Big Ten Menís Basketball media day at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.
In the game's final 12 minutes, Goldin formed a formidable scoring trio with guard Roddy Gayle Jr. and power forward Danny Wolf, as the three combined for Michigan's final 20 points. His interior presence forced Iowa to commit extra defensive attention, creating opportunities for his teammates – a strategy that ultimately paid off on the game-winning play.
"We thought they'd pay a lot of attention to Vlad and Danny," head coach Dusty May said of the final possession. "We just used those two as a decoy essentially... We felt if Roddy could get downhill, Danny and Vlad would have an opportunity on the glass."
The Wolverines will need another strong performance from Goldin when they face Arkansas on Tuesday night in the Jimmy V Classic at Madison Square Garden.
