Michigan pulled it off, rallying from a 12-point halftime deficit to beat Wisconsin coming out of the three-week layoff.

Returning to the court for the first time since Jan. 22, the Wolverines displayed plenty of rust in a lackluster first-half effort. The Badgers took advantage to build a lead, but things took a turn in the second half.

In fact, the turnaround started for Michigan following a technical foul called on the Wolverines bench. It came following an altercation between Wisconsin’s Brad Davison and Michigan’s Mike Smith.

With just over 18 minutes left in the game, the bench was displeased by the fact that Davison was not called for throwing an elbow. The officials ruled the elbow inadvertent.

At the time of the technical, Wisconsin was winning 42-32. Michigan would rally and win by a final score of 67-59.

After the game, head coach Juwan Howard was asked about the play and his reaction. He admitted it definitely fired up his team and also confirmed he intentionally called the ensuing offensive possession to go towards Smith. Smith scored that layup and finished the game with six points for Michigan.

Here’s what Howard had to say after the game:

Michigan improved to 9-1 in the B1G with the comeback win and will face No. 25 Rutgers on Thursday.