No. 2 Michigan rallies from 16-point deficit to defeat Northwestern

Wolverines overcome largest halftime deficit of the season to win 87-75

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The No. 2 ranked Michigan Wolverines overcame a season-high 16-point deficit to defeat the Northwestern Wildcats 87-75 on the road. Michigan trailed by 9 points at halftime and fell behind by 16 in the second half before rallying behind strong shooting to take the lead and pull away late.

Why it matters

This comeback win for the highly ranked Wolverines demonstrates their resilience and ability to overcome adversity on the road against a conference opponent. It also highlights the parity in the Big Ten conference, where even top teams can face significant deficits before mounting a comeback.

The details

Michigan shot 55.2% in the second half compared to just 30.8% for Northwestern. The Wolverines closed the game on a 27-8 run after trailing by as many as 16 points. L.J. Cason led Michigan with 18 points, while Yaxel Lendeborg recorded a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds. Northwestern was led by Jayden Reid's 20 points, but couldn't maintain their hot start from the field.

  • Michigan faced its largest halftime deficit, 9 points, in the game.
  • The Wildcats built a season-high 16-point lead with 14:22 remaining in the second half.
  • Michigan took the lead for good at the 5:51 mark of the second half.

The players

L.J. Cason

A Michigan player who scored a team-high 18 points in the comeback win.

Yaxel Lendeborg

A Michigan player who recorded a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds.

Jayden Reid

A Northwestern player who led all scorers with 20 points in the losing effort.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This game showcases Michigan's ability to overcome adversity and mount a comeback, even on the road against a conference opponent. It highlights the competitiveness of the Big Ten and the parity that exists, where even top teams can face significant deficits before rallying to victory.