UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, the No. 1 Michigan Wolverines defeated the No. 5 Wisconsin Badgers 68-65, thanks to a last-second three-pointer by Yaxel Lendeborg in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals on March 5, 2026. With only a second left on the clock, Lendeborg launched a shot from beyond the arc, sealing Michigan’s spot in the finals.
The game showcased intense back-and-forth action, with Michigan improving to an impressive 31-2 overall and 19-1 in the Big Ten. Wisconsin, now at 24-10 and 14-6 in the conference, fought valiantly but fell short in the end.
Early in the game, both teams struggled to find success inside the paint, but Wisconsin’s shooting from long range gave them an edge. Forward Aleksas Bieliauskas hit three early three-pointers, allowing the Badgers to maintain a lead for much of the first half. In contrast, Michigan faced challenges from behind the arc but managed to stay in contention by capitalizing on free throws.
Michigan’s defense tightened in the second half, allowing them to attack the rim effectively. Lendeborg and junior center Aday Mara took advantage of this, with Mara scoring crucial layups to extend Michigan’s lead to 15 points.
However, Wisconsin responded quickly, erasing the deficit with a barrage of three-pointers, including three consecutive from Austin Rapp. As the game approached its final moments, both teams were locked in a tie, heightening the tension.
With under a minute remaining, Lendeborg’s offensive rebound set up a pivotal three-pointer by junior guard Elliot Cadeau, pushing Michigan ahead once again. Yet, Wisconsin’s Nick Boyd countered with a three of his own, tying the game yet again.
As the clock wound down, Lendeborg’s decisive shot not only showcased his skill but also exemplified his ability to perform under pressure. The Big Ten Player of the Year proved his worth by delivering the game-winning shot, propelling Michigan to the conference championship game.
This victory not only highlights Michigan’s strength but also sets the stage for an exciting final matchup. Fans eagerly await to see how the Wolverines will carry this momentum into the championship.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Big Ten Tournament continues to unfold.
