Story perspectives

Wolverines' Lendeborg Hits Last-Second 3 to Upset Wisconsin

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Yaxel Lendeborg of the University of Michigan, No. 3, hit a game-winning 3-pointer with 0.4 seconds left to beat No. 23 Wisconsin 68-65 in Big Ten Tournament semifinal on March 14, 2026.
The Wolverines erased a 15-point lead to reach the championship.
Lendeborg finished with 12 points, nine in the second half, avenging Michigan's loss to Wisconsin.
Michigan will face the Purdue-UCLA winner for the title on March 15, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The Big Ten Conference established its basketball tournament in 1980, with Michigan State University winning the inaugural event. This marked a significant shift in collegiate basketball, as postseason play gained importance. The tournament has since become a platform for intense rivalries, exemplified by the University of Michigan's recent comeback against Wisconsin, highlighting the enduring excitement and competitiveness of college basketball.

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Story summary

Yaxel Lendeborg of the University of Michigan, No. 3, hit a game-winning 3-pointer with 0.4 seconds left to beat No. 23 Wisconsin 68-65 in Big Ten Tournament semifinal on March 14, 2026.
The Wolverines erased a 15-point lead to reach the championship.
Lendeborg finished with 12 points, nine in the second half, avenging Michigan's loss to Wisconsin.
Michigan will face the Purdue-UCLA winner for the title on March 15, 2026.

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