Michigan Survives Tight Battle Against Ohio State in Big Ten Tourney

Top-seeded Wolverines edge No. 8 Buckeyes 71-67 to advance to semifinals

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:19pm

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In a tight matchup between Big Ten rivals, top-seeded Michigan held off No. 8 seed Ohio State 71-67 in the Big Ten tournament quarterfinals. The Wolverines, who had swept the Buckeyes in the regular season, led by as much as 11 in the first half before Ohio State rallied to tie the game. Michigan responded with a key 7-0 run late and made enough plays down the stretch to secure the victory and advance to the semifinals.

Why it matters

This win keeps Michigan's hopes alive for a Big Ten tournament championship and potential high NCAA tournament seeding. The close nature of the game also highlights the competitiveness of the Big Ten, where even the top teams can struggle against conference rivals on any given night.

The details

Michigan was led by Aday Mara's 17 points and 7 rebounds, while Elliot Cadeau added 15 points and 7 assists. The Wolverines scored 19 points off 10 Ohio State turnovers. The Buckeyes were paced by Bruce Thornton's 22 points, but couldn't overcome Michigan's defensive intensity and transition offense in the end.

  • Michigan beat Ohio State by 12 at home and by 21 on the road in the first two matchups this season.
  • Michigan and Ohio State faced off in the Big Ten tournament quarterfinals on Friday, March 13, 2026.

The players

Aday Mara

A key player for Michigan, scoring 17 points and grabbing 7 rebounds in the win.

Elliot Cadeau

Michigan's starting point guard, he had 15 points and 7 assists in the victory.

Bruce Thornton

Ohio State's leading scorer with 22 points, but the Buckeyes couldn't overcome Michigan's defense.

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What’s next

Michigan advances to face the winner of No. 4 seed Illinois and No. 5 seed Wisconsin in a semifinal at 1 p.m. Saturday, with a spot in Sunday's championship game on the line.

The takeaway

Michigan's ability to withstand Ohio State's second-half rally and make the necessary plays down the stretch showcases the Wolverines' poise and experience as a top contender in the Big Ten tournament and beyond.