The Michigan Wolverines are set to face off against the USC Trojans, ranked No. 24, on January 2, 2026. This game, dubbed Detroit Pistons Night, will occur at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, beginning at 7 p.m. The Wolverines are looking to maintain their undefeated record, standing at 12-0 overall this season.
Matchup Overview
The highly anticipated game marks the fifth consecutive sellout for the Wolverines at Crisler Center. As they enter this contest, Michigan continues to demonstrate outstanding team performance, joining only five other teams in maintaining their undefeated status.
- Rankings: Michigan at No. 2, USC at No. 24
- Date: Friday, January 2, 2026
- Location: Crisler Center, Ann Arbor
- Broadcast: Peacock
Former Wolverine Connection
This game also features a reunion with Terrance Williams II, a former standout for Michigan. Williams contributed significantly to the team during his four seasons, aiding in the Wolverines’ success in capturing the 2021 Big Ten title and reaching the NCAA Sweet 16 in both 2021 and 2022.
Michigan’s Dominant Start
The Wolverines have made headlines with one of the strongest starts in modern college basketball. Currently, they rank third nationally, averaging 96.8 points per game, which is 7.4 points above USC’s average of 89.4.
Statistical Highlights
- Victories by 20+ points: 9
- Victories by 40+ points: 6
- Overall points in last games: 100 or more in 6 of the last 7
- Average points per game last 7 games: 101.1
- Assists per game: 21.6 (2nd nationally)
Key players have been instrumental. Point guard Elliot Cadeau stands out, with a scoring average of 9.8 points per game over the recent stretch. He has been particularly effective, making over 50% of his shots, including 57.1% from three-point range. Cadeau is the only Wolverine to have made a three-pointer in each game this season.
Notable Performances
- Aday Mara: Leading the Big Ten with 2.58 blocks per game
- Morez Johnson Jr.: Averaging 13.6 points, with a career-high 24 points against Oakland University
- Yaxel Lendeborg: Leading scorer with 15.7 points per game, shooting 77.8% on two-point attempts
As the Wolverines gear up to take on USC, fans look forward to another exhilarating night of college basketball, showcasing fierce competition and remarkable talent.
