Morris leads Michigan past N.C. Central

Published Dec. 14, 2010 8:43 p.m. ET

foxsports

ROD BEARD
The Detroit News

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- After playing what coach John Beilein called Michigan's best half of basketball in the opening 20 minutes against Utah, the team played maybe its worst against North Carolina Central.

But Michigan's abysmal first half was followed by a better second half, which was good enough for a 64-44 victory Tuesday night at Crisler Arena.

"Thank goodness our defense was so good in the first half," Beilein said. "We were able to just keep our heads above water.

"(Central) played very tough against some high-level teams and we wanted to make sure our guys didn't look past them. I don't think we look past people yet and I hope it doesn't happen."

The Wolverines (8-2) won their fifth straight and improved to 7-0 at home.

Much like last week's victory over Concordia, Michigan struggled against lesser competition.

With starting center Jordan Morgan in foul trouble, Wolverines freshman Jon Horford had a career night, with nine points and nine rebounds