Michigan Storms Back From 16-Point Deficit to Defeat Northwestern

Wolverines score on 21 straight possessions in second half to rally for 87-75 victory

Feb. 12, 2026 at 1:07pm

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The Michigan Wolverines overcame a 16-point second-half deficit to defeat the Northwestern Wildcats 87-75 on the road. Michigan went on an impressive 21-possession scoring streak to flip the game and secure the victory, improving their record to 23-1 on the season.

Why it matters

Michigan's comeback victory showcases the team's resilience and depth, as their bench players scored 33 of the team's 87 points. The win also keeps the Wolverines in contention for a high seed in the NCAA Tournament.

The details

After trailing by 16 points with 14:37 remaining in the second half, Michigan scored on its next 21 possessions to erase the deficit and take control of the game. The Wolverines' defensive intensity improved, and they were able to capitalize on Northwestern's offensive struggles. Michigan head coach Dusty May credited his team's depth as a key factor, noting that four of his bench players could start for many other programs.

  • With 14:37 left in the second half, Northwestern led 56-41.
  • Michigan then scored on its next 21 possessions.
  • The scoring streak ended with 1:13 left in the game.

The players

Dusty May

Head coach of the Michigan Wolverines basketball team.

Arrinten Page

Player for the Northwestern Wildcats who hit a layup to give Northwestern a 56-41 lead.

Trey McKinney

Player for the Michigan Wolverines who missed a three-point attempt, ending Michigan's scoring streak.

Yaxel Lendeborg

Player for the Michigan Wolverines who got an offensive rebound after Trey McKinney's missed three-pointer.

LJ Carson

Player for the Michigan Wolverines who turned the ball over on a bad pass after Yaxel Lendeborg's offensive rebound.

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What they’re saying

“When we stopped hurting our defense from our offensive ineptitude, we started playing much better.”

— Dusty May, Head Coach (All About Ann Arbor)

“We have four guys on our bench that could start on a lot of quality programs.”

— Dusty May, Head Coach (All About Ann Arbor)

What’s next

Michigan will return to the court on Saturday, hosting UCLA.

The takeaway

Michigan's comeback victory showcases the team's resilience and depth, as they were able to overcome a significant second-half deficit by tightening up their defense and getting production from their bench players. This win keeps the Wolverines in contention for a high seed in the NCAA Tournament.