Michigan basketball's 2nd-half debacle reflects steep learning curve

Michigan coach Juwan Howard discusses his team's 79-71 win in the season opener vs. Appalachian State, Nov. 5, 2019. Orion Sang, Detroit Free Press

Michigan basketball is a work in progress, as expected with a new coach in his debut.

The second half of Tuesday's season-opening 79-71 win over Appalachian State left little doubt there is a long way to go.

With 12:59 left in the second half, the Wolverines held a 30-point lead at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor. Up to that point, they dominated the game on both ends, attacking down low and from outside on offense, and limiting quality shots on defense.

Michigan was well on its way to beginning the Juwan Howard era with a blowout over an overmatched…