Michigan says loss to Purdue inspired its Final Four run

Michigan's loss to Purdue in the Big Ten Tournament humbled the team and players say it refocused them as they advanced to the Final Four.

Michigan entered the season with the goal of finishing at Lucas Oil Stadium. Three weeks ago the Final Four felt expected rather than earned. On March 15 at the United Center, Purdue beat Michigan to win the Big Ten Tournament and challenged the Wolverines physically. Players say that loss led to intense, player-led practices and helped refocus the team ahead of the NCAA Tournament. What we know: - Purdue beat Michigan in the Big Ten Tournament championship on March 15 at the United Center in Chicago. - Michigan players described that defeat as a humbling "punch in the mouth" that prompted tougher, player-led practices. - After the Big Ten loss, Michigan defeated Howard, Saint Louis, Alabama and Tennessee in the NCAA Tournament, averaging 95.3 points and winning by an average margin of 22.5. - Michigan is preparing for a Final Four game Saturday night against Arizona. - Purdue later lost to Arizona in the Elite Eight, where they were outplayed physically in the second half. Summary: Players and coaches say the Big Ten Tournament loss to Purdue helped refocus Michigan and sharpen areas such as physical play and rebounding. That renewed intensity preceded a series of decisive NCAA Tournament wins and the team's advance to the Final Four, where Michigan will face Arizona on Saturday night.