No. 3 Michigan beats No. 7 Michigan State 83-71, takes sole possession of first place in Big Ten

Wolverines move into first place in conference after win over previously unbeaten Nebraska

Jan. 31, 2026 at 12:15am

The No. 3 Michigan Wolverines defeated the No. 7 Michigan State Spartans 83-71 on Friday night, moving into sole possession of first place in the Big Ten conference. Michigan was led by Yaxel Lendeborg's 26 points and 12 rebounds, as well as strong performances from Elliot Cadeau and Morez Johnson. The Spartans struggled early, missing 14 of their first 18 shots and finishing the first half with more turnovers than field goals. Michigan State made a late push to tie the game, but the Wolverines responded with clutch shooting to seal the victory.

Why it matters

This win puts Michigan in sole possession of first place in the Big Ten, a significant achievement as the conference race heats up. The Wolverines have now won six straight games, including a victory over previously unbeaten Nebraska, solidifying their status as one of the top teams in the country.

The details

Michigan dominated the first half, building an 18-point lead as Michigan State struggled with turnovers and poor shooting. The Spartans made a 13-2 run early in the second half to pull within three points, but the Wolverines responded with clutch shooting to regain control of the game. Jeremy Fears led Michigan State with a career-high 31 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome Michigan's balanced scoring attack.

  • The game was played on Friday, January 31, 2026.
  • Michigan will host Michigan State in the second game of the season series on March 8 to close the regular season.

The players

Yaxel Lendeborg

A key player for the Michigan Wolverines, scoring 26 points and grabbing 12 rebounds in the win.

Elliot Cadeau

Scored 17 points for the Michigan Wolverines in the victory.

Morez Johnson

Added 12 points for the Michigan Wolverines in the win.

Jeremy Fears

Led the Michigan State Spartans with a career-high 31 points in the loss.

Jaxon Kohler

Scored 12 points for the Michigan State Spartans in the defeat.

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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

“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

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.