Michigan Basketball Aims for Best Start in Program History in Valentine's Day 'White Out' vs. UCLA

No. 2 Wolverines host Bruins in key non-conference matchup at Crisler Center

Feb. 14, 2026 at 4:47pm

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The No. 2-ranked Michigan Wolverines men's basketball team (23-1, 13-1 Big Ten) returns home to Ann Arbor for a Valentine's Day matchup and 'White Out' event against UCLA (17-7, 9-4 Pac-12) at Crisler Center. Michigan is off to the best start in program history and looks to continue its dominant run against the visiting Bruins.

Why it matters

This game represents a key non-conference test for the Wolverines, who are aiming to maintain their position as one of the top teams in the country. A win would further cement Michigan's status as a national title contender, while a loss could raise questions about their ability to compete with elite programs outside the Big Ten.

The details

Michigan has won 10 or more Big Ten games in 13 of the past 15 seasons and boasts a 23-1 record, the best start in program history. The Wolverines have been dominant, recording 19 wins by 10 or more points, 12 by 20 or more, and even one by 50 or more. Their 'Big Three' of Yaxel Lendeborg, Morez Johnson Jr., and Aday Mara account for nearly 45% of the team's scoring and 56% of its rebounding.

  • Michigan last faced UCLA inside Crisler Arena during the 2017-18 season on Dec. 9, 2017.
  • Tipoff is set for 12:45 p.m. on Saturday (Feb. 14).
  • Fans are encouraged to wear white to the game, and the first 5,000 will receive a white rally towel, presented by Coca-Cola.

The players

Yaxel Lendeborg

Averaging 14.3 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, a key part of Michigan's 'Big Three'.

Morez Johnson Jr.

Averaging 13.5 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, another member of Michigan's 'Big Three'.

Aday Mara

Averaging 11.4 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, rounding out Michigan's 'Big Three'.

Elliot Cadeau

Leads the Wolverines with 5.5 assists per game, posting six or more assists in six straight games.

Trey McKenney

Michigan's 'Sixth Man', scoring in double figures in seven straight games and averaging 10.2 points in 21 minutes per game.

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What they’re saying

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

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

After this game, Michigan will continue its Big Ten schedule with a road matchup against rival Michigan State on February 18.

The takeaway

Michigan's dominant start to the season has put them in position to potentially secure a top seed in the NCAA Tournament and make a deep run. This game against UCLA will be a crucial test as the Wolverines look to maintain their status as one of the elite teams in college basketball.