UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, the No. 1 Michigan Wolverines triumphed over the No. 5 Wisconsin Badgers with a score of 68-65 in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals on March 10, 2026. Graduate forward Yaxel Lendeborg delivered a stunning game-winning shot with just one second left on the clock, propelling his team into the finals.
The Wolverines, boasting a record of 31-2, were pushed to their limits by the Badgers, who held a strong lead for much of the game. Lendeborg’s last-second three-pointer capped a back-and-forth battle, showcasing his status as Michigan’s go-to player this season. With this victory, the Wolverines advance to the Big Ten Championship, continuing their quest for dominance.
Both teams struggled early, unable to find success inside the arc. Michigan’s renowned interior defense forced the Badgers into tough shots, sending back six attempts before halftime. However, Wisconsin’s perimeter shooting shone through, as forward Aleksas Bieliauskas nailed three three-pointers early on, helping the Badgers establish a lead.
Michigan’s struggles were evident; they recorded their lowest first-half total of the season, trailing 28-25 at halftime. But the Wolverines clawed back in the second half, with Lendeborg and junior center Aday Mara exploiting openings to drive to the basket. A pivotal layup by Mara gave Michigan a 15-point lead with ten minutes remaining.
Just when it seemed Michigan had control, Wisconsin surged back. In a stunning four-minute span, the Badgers hit five three-pointers, tying the game. Forward Austin Rapp was pivotal during this stretch, scoring three consecutive triples and forcing a Michigan timeout.
As the game neared its conclusion, tensions rose. With under a minute left and the score tied, Lendeborg secured an offensive rebound and assisted junior guard Elliot Cadeau, who hit a crucial three-pointer. Wisconsin’s Nick Boyd answered back with a tying three, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
In the dying seconds of the game, Lendeborg stepped up, delivering the game-winner that sent the Badgers packing. His clutch shot not only sealed the victory but also highlighted his role as the Big Ten Player of the Year, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
With this victory, Michigan prepares for the Big Ten Championship, aiming for a title that could solidify their position as a top contender in the NCAA tournament. Fans are left buzzing about Lendeborg’s heroic moment, as the Wolverines look to carry this momentum forward.
Stay tuned for more updates as Michigan heads into the finals, and keep following for live coverage of the Big Ten Championship game.
