In a dramatic Big Ten showdown on February 11, 2026, the No. 2 Michigan Wolverines overcame a sizable deficit and secured an 87‑75 victory over the Northwestern Wildcats at Welsh‑Ryan Arena in Evanston, Illinois.
The game featured pivotal momentum swings, clutch scoring efforts, and standout individual performances that defined this compelling matchup.
🔥 Michigan’s Second‑Half Surge
After trailing by as many as 16 points early in the second half — the largest deficit they’d faced all season — Michigan ignited a furious comeback behind efficient offense and stout defense.
The Wolverines outscored Northwestern 52‑31 after halftime, turning the game in their favor with sustained pressure and timely buckets.
Highlight plays included:
A critical 15‑2 run that swung momentum Michigan’s way.
Yaxel Lendeborg’s go‑ahead layup with just under 6 minutes left.
Aday Mara’s emphatic alley‑oop dunk off a L.J. Cason assist that extended the lead.
⭐ Key Performers
L.J. Cason (Michigan): Sparked the rally with 18 points, including a game‑changing stretch after halftime.
Yaxel Lendeborg (Michigan): Finished with a double‑double — 15 points and 12 rebounds — and played a crucial role on both ends of the floor.
Aday Mara, Trey McKenney & Morez Johnson Jr.: Each contributed 12 points, maintaining offensive balance for Michigan.
Jayden Reid (Northwestern): Led the Wildcats with 20 points, while Nick Martinelli added 18 in defeat.
🏀 Game Flow & Highlights
The Wildcats came out hot, shooting efficiently and building a double‑digit lead by capitalizing on early Michigan struggles.
A notable momentum swing included a blocked shot by Northwestern’s Arrinten Page, leading to a fastbreak score by Angelo Ciaravino that helped extend Northwestern’s lead.
But Michigan refused to fold, steadily narrowing the gap before taking control in the final minutes.
The Wolverines shot over 55 % in the second half, showcasing their offensive firepower.
📊 Final Score & Significance
Michigan Wolverines — 87
Northwestern Wildcats — 75
Michigan improved to 23‑1 overall and 13‑1 in Big Ten play, continuing their elite season and maintaining their position near the top of the national rankings. Northwestern dropped to 10‑15 (2‑12) in conference competition.
Must‑Watch Highlights
📺 Top moments from this battle:
Michigan’s comeback run and key baskets from Cason and Lendeborg.
Defensive plays and fastbreak offense — including Page’s highlight block and Ciaravino’s finish.
What This Means for Both Teams
Michigan: Continues to build momentum as a national title contender, showing resilience in tight situations and depth across the roster.
Northwestern: Despite the loss, Northwestern showcased effort early and will look to regroup as the Big Ten schedule continues.
