NU vs. Michigan Basketball

On a rainy evening, we drove out to Ann Arbor after work with some regret in purchasing tickets to see Northwestern basketball take on newly anointed No. 1 Michigan.  Without Drew Crawford, it's been a little tough getting our hopes high for any sort of big win, but you never know.

While it took us a little over an hour to get out there for the early start time, we met up with Scott just as the first few minutes ticked off the clock.  After finding our seats, we immediately noticed the Crisler Arena renovations, which according to their web site includes "expanded and renovated concourses for additional restrooms, concessions and other fan amenities. All seats throughout the arena were replaced."  It definitely seemed brighter, updated, and more like a basketball arena than the last game we attended where it seemed more like a theater.

So far, Scottie and I are 1-1 at Michigan with a win in our first game back in 2008, but a loss in 2009.  We've taken the last three years off mostly because they typically play during the week and it's hard for us to get motivated to drive 45 minutes to get our hopes crushed when we can just watch on the Big Ten Network.  This year was no exception to that as the 'Cats never managed to lead this game or take advantage when the Wolverines slowed down their shooting streak.  At the half, it was 36-21, so we knew the second half had to be strong, which is always a struggle for the 'Cats.

The evening was not entirely lost though as after, we headed to Café Zola for dinner.  While we've been here before their amazing brunch, this time we drooled over their unique dinner combinations.  The specials were at least 5 deep, but we both decided to order straight off the menu.  I started with the filling and flavorful Emile’s Arugula Salad, which included grilled pear slices, honey glazed walnuts and Stilton cheese on a bed of arugula with aged sherry.  For our dinners, I chose the Penne with Sausage and Chianti Sauce that paired sweet Italian sausage and Chianti wine with penne pasta, green peas, and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.  I liked the combination, and shoveled this in, while Scottie tackled his mound of Grilled Lamb Chops “a la Turque”.  Great food.  There seems to be a lot more on the menu for us to try next time!

More photos here.