Full Breakdown
Michigan Completes Regular Season Sweep Over Michigan State
3/9/2026, 2:06:04 AM
Wolverines Dominate in Rivalry Matchup
On March 8, 2026, the No. 3 Michigan Wolverines secured a 90-80 victory over the No. 8 Michigan State Spartans at the Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, completing a regular-season sweep of their rivals. This win marked Michigan's 15th consecutive victory in the Big Ten, finishing the regular season with a remarkable 19-1 conference record, the best in the program's history. The Wolverines, now 29-2 overall, are poised for a strong showing in the upcoming NCAA Tournament, aiming for their first national championship since 1989.
Yaxel Lendeborg led the Wolverines with 27 points, including five three-pointers, while Morez Johnson Jr. contributed 18 points and seven rebounds. The Spartans, who fell to 25-6 and 15-5 in the Big Ten, were led by Jaxon Kohler with 23 points and Jeremy Fears Jr. with 22 points and nine assists.
Game Overview
The game began with a competitive edge, as Michigan State took an early 5-0 lead. However, Michigan quickly responded with an 11-0 run, aided by a series of technical fouls that disrupted the flow of the game. Fears was assessed a technical foul for a kick to the groin of Michigan's Elliot Cadeau, a controversial moment that drew significant attention. Both teams exchanged leads throughout the first half, with Michigan entering halftime ahead 42-41.
In the second half, the Wolverines regained control, leveraging their depth and shooting prowess. Despite a strong effort from Michigan State, including a brief lead, Michigan's late-game execution proved decisive. Lendeborg's critical three-pointer with just over three minutes remaining helped solidify the victory.
Key Performances and Statistics
Lendeborg's performance was pivotal, showcasing his scoring ability and defensive versatility. He shot 8-of-12 from the field and was instrumental in key moments, including a crucial assist to Johnson for a slam dunk that extended Michigan's lead. Johnson's contributions were vital, especially with both he and Aday Mara facing foul trouble during the game.
For Michigan State, Kohler's scoring and Fears' playmaking kept the Spartans competitive. However, the team's lack of bench production, which saw them outscored 24-6 by Michigan's reserves, ultimately hindered their chances. The Spartans' defense struggled against Michigan's perimeter shooting, allowing the Wolverines to shoot nearly 50% from three-point range.
Criticism and Controversy
The game was marked by physical play and emotional intensity, leading to multiple technical fouls on both sides. Fears' actions, which have drawn scrutiny throughout the season, were a focal point for discussion. Michigan coach Dusty May commented on the need for a fair game, while Michigan State coach Tom Izzo defended Fears, stating that the scrutiny he faces is unwarranted.
Looking Ahead
Both teams are set to compete in the Big Ten Tournament, with Michigan entering as the No. 1 seed and Michigan State as the No. 3 seed. The Wolverines will aim to build on their momentum as they prepare for the NCAA Tournament, where they are projected to secure a No. 1 seed. Meanwhile, Michigan State will look to regroup and address the issues that surfaced during the rivalry matchup as they seek to make a deep postseason run.
