No. 3 Michigan claims Big Ten regular-season title with win over No. 10 Illinois

Morez Johnson Jr. scores 19 points and grabs 11 rebounds against his former team

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

No. 3 Michigan defeated No. 10 Illinois 84-70 on Friday night to clinch the Big Ten regular-season title. Morez Johnson Jr., who played for Illinois last season, had 19 points and 11 rebounds against his former team.

Why it matters

This win gives Michigan the Big Ten regular-season title, a significant accomplishment for the program. Johnson's performance against his former team adds an interesting personal storyline to the game.

The details

Morez Johnson Jr., who verbally committed to Illinois three years ago but ended up playing for them last season, was booed throughout the game by Illinois fans. Despite the hostile environment, Johnson had a strong performance, scoring 19 points and grabbing 11 rebounds to help lead Michigan to the victory.

  • The game took place on Friday, February 28, 2026.

The players

Morez Johnson Jr.

A player who previously played for Illinois but is now on the Michigan team.

Michigan

The No. 3 ranked college basketball team that won the Big Ten regular-season title.

Illinois

The No. 10 ranked college basketball team that lost to Michigan.

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The takeaway

This game showcased the talent and competitiveness of both Michigan and Illinois, with Michigan emerging victorious to claim the Big Ten regular-season title. Johnson's performance against his former team added an intriguing personal storyline to the matchup.