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

Morez Johnson Jr. leads Wolverines to victory against his former team

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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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 and was booed throughout the game.

Why it matters

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

The details

Morez Johnson Jr., who verbally committed to Illinois three years ago but played for the Illini last season, had a standout game against his former team, scoring 19 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. The Wolverines were able to pull away in the second half to secure the 84-70 victory and clinch the Big Ten regular-season title.

  • 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 showcases the competitive nature of Big Ten basketball and the personal storylines that can emerge when players transfer between conference rivals. Michigan's regular-season title is a significant achievement for the program.