Wolverines shoot 53% from the field and dominate the paint as they continue their championship march through the Big Ten.
Michigan left little doubt Saturday night, using an efficient offensive performance and a strong second half to defeat Illinois 84-70.
The Wolverines shot 53% from the field (31-of-59) and knocked down 14 of 17 free throws, turning a competitive first half into a comfortable double-digit win by the final horn. The final margin was 14, but it wasn't that close. With the victory, Michigan secured the outright regular season Big Ten title and continued to build on what has already been an elite campaign in the Big Ten. Earning a banner was certainly on Michigan's mind tonight, though the focus remained squarely on handling business against a dangerous Illinois squad in their own building.
Michigan led 38-31 at halftime before exploding for 46 points after the break, shooting 60% in the second half. The Wolverines shared the ball effectively, finishing with 15 assists, and controlled the paint with a 42-32 scoring edge inside.
A trio of Wolverines led the offensive charge. Aday Mara scored 19 points on an efficient 8-of-9 shooting while adding five rebounds. Morez Johnson Jr. returned to Illinois where he played last year as a freshman and matched him with 19 points of his own and delivered a double-double, pulling down a game-high 11 rebounds. Yaxel Lendeborg added 16 points and seven boards, including a key three-pointer in the final minutes that pushed Michigan’s lead to 14 and effectively sealed the game. When Michigan's version of a "Big Three" plays like this, they are virtually unbeatable.
Michigan’s depth also proved critical. The Wolverines outscored Illinois 20-7 in bench points, getting key contributions from Trey McKenney and others to maintain energy and pace. Michigan led for more than 31 minutes of game time and built its advantage to as many as 21 points in the second half.
Illinois was paced by super freshman Keaton Wagler’s 23 points, while Kylan Boswell added 15 and David Mirkovic chipped in 12 points and 10 rebounds. The Illini shot just 41% from the field and struggled to keep up once Michigan found its rhythm offensively.
Though both teams committed 10 turnovers, Michigan’s efficiency and physicality made the difference. The Wolverines won the rebounding battle 34-30 and converted consistently at the foul line, maintaining control whenever Illinois threatened to close the gap.
In a season already marked by consistency and poise, Michigan once again looked the part of a Big Ten champion — efficient, balanced and relentless when it matters most.