UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, the No. 1 Michigan Wolverines narrowly defeated the No. 5 Wisconsin Badgers 68-65, thanks to a last-second three-pointer from Yaxel Lendeborg in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals on March 10, 2026.
With just one second left on the clock, Lendeborg, a graduate forward, delivered the decisive shot from beyond the arc, sealing the victory for Michigan and propelling them into the finals. This victory improves Michigan’s record to an impressive 31-2, while Wisconsin ends the season at 24-10.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, characterized by a fierce back-and-forth battle. Both teams struggled offensively early on, with Michigan’s defense stifling Wisconsin’s inside game and sending back six shots before halftime. However, the Badgers found their rhythm from long range, particularly through forward Aleksas Bieliauskas, who hit three early three-pointers, giving Wisconsin a lead that they maintained for much of the first half.
Michigan’s first-half performance was their lowest scoring total of the season, yet they managed to stay in contention by capitalizing at the free-throw line. A crucial three-pointer from Lendeborg at the end of the first half tied the game at 28, setting the stage for a dramatic second half.
The Wolverines came out strong after the break, dominating the paint with drives from Lendeborg and junior center Aday Mara. Mara’s physical presence helped Michigan surge ahead by 15 points at one stage. However, Wisconsin responded with a stunning offensive outburst, erasing the deficit with five three-pointers in just four minutes. Guard Austin Rapp was instrumental in this comeback, hitting three consecutive shots from deep.
As the clock wound down, the tension escalated. Both teams were deadlocked, and momentum shifted with an offensive rebound from Lendeborg. He quickly assisted junior guard Elliot Cadeau, who sank a crucial three-pointer, but Wisconsin’s Nick Boyd matched it with a three of his own, tying the game once again.
In a nail-biting finish, Lendeborg rose to the occasion, delivering a game-winning shot that not only secured the win but also sent his team to the conference championship. The Big Ten Player of the Year demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, illustrating why he is the Wolverines’ go-to player.
With this victory, Michigan now looks ahead to the finals, aiming to claim the Big Ten title. Fans are buzzing with excitement as the Wolverines prepare for their next challenge, eager to see if Lendeborg can replicate his stunning performance.
Stay tuned for further updates as Michigan continues its pursuit of glory in the Big Ten Tournament.
