Wisconsin Badgers Challenge Undefeated Michigan Wolverines in Big Ten Clash
Ann Arbor, Mich., January 10, 2026 – The Wisconsin Badgers (10-5, 2-2 Big Ten) look to end a four-game losing streak against the undefeated No. 2 Michigan Wolverines (14-0, 4-0 Big Ten) in a crucial Big Ten men’s basketball matchup at Crisler Center. Tip-off is set for 1 p.m. EST, with the game broadcast on CBS. Michigan enters as heavy favorites after a narrow 74-72 win over Penn State, while Wisconsin rides momentum from an 80-72 victory over UCLA.
Game Preview
The Wolverines have dominated the series recently, winning the last four meetings, including a 59-53 victory in the 2025 Big Ten Tournament championship. Michigan boasts one of the nation’s top offenses, averaging 97.2 points per game over their last 10 contests, led by a trio of double-digit scorers: Yaxel Lendeborg (14.7 PPG), Morez Johnson Jr. (13.9 PPG), and Aday Mara (10.2 PPG). Their defense, anchored by Mara’s 2.6 blocks per game, has allowed just 65.0 points per game in that span.
Wisconsin, under coach Greg Gard, has shown resilience, going 10-0 when scoring 80 or more points. The Badgers’ balanced attack features Nick Boyd (19.5 PPG, Big Ten’s fourth-leading scorer), who had 20 points in their win over UCLA, alongside Nolan Winter (14.6 PPG, 6.8 RPG) and John Blackwell (17.4 PPG). A key reunion occurs as Boyd, a former player under Michigan coach Dusty May at Florida Atlantic, faces his old mentor.
Key Facts and Stats
| Team | Record | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan Wolverines | 14-0 (4-0 Big Ten) | 97.2 | 41.0 |
| Wisconsin Badgers | 10-5 (2-2 Big Ten) | 79.5 | 34.1 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the game?
The game is scheduled for Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 1 p.m. EST at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It will be televised on CBS.
What is the betting line?
Michigan is favored by 18.5 points, with an over/under of 167.5 points.
Who are the key players to watch?
For Michigan, watch Yaxel Lendeborg, Morez Johnson Jr., and Aday Mara. For Wisconsin, Nick Boyd, Nolan Winter, and John Blackwell are expected to lead the offense.