The University of Michigan’s men’s basketball team is set to face Cincinnati on October 17 at Crisler Center. This game will be the first of two preseason exhibition matches for the Wolverines, with tipoff scheduled for 6 p.m. Fans can watch the game live on B1G+, with Ethan Sommers, Zach Edwards, and Jaden Fode providing commentary.
Backdrop of the Game
Entering his second season, head coach Dusty May aims to continue the momentum from a successful debut. The Wolverines finished the previous season with a commendable record of 27-10, achieving a 14-6 record in Big Ten play. They secured a No. 3 seed for the conference tournament and clinched their fourth Big Ten Tournament title by defeating Wisconsin 59-53. Advancing to the NCAA Sweet 16, Michigan faced elimination against top-seeded Auburn.
Preseason Rankings and Predictions
- Michigan is ranked No. 7 in the preseason, its highest since the 2021-22 season.
- This is the 16th time the Wolverines have entered the preseason top 10.
- Media projections indicate U-M could finish second in the Big Ten, following Purdue, which is ranked No. 1.
Historical Context
This matchup marks the first meeting between Michigan and Cincinnati in over three decades, with the Wolverines leading the all-time series 3-1. The last encounter was during the 1992 NCAA Final Four, where Michigan triumphed 76-72, advancing to the national championship game.
Cincinnati’s Recent Performance
Last season, Cincinnati recorded a 19-16 overall record, finishing 7-13 in Big 12 play. They reached the College Basketball Crown postseason tournament, winning their opening game against DePaul before succumbing to UCF.
- Day Day Thomas is the only returning starter for the Bearcats, averaging 10.2 points and 2.7 assists last season.
- Head coach Wes Miller begins his fifth season with Cincinnati after a successful tenure at UNC Greensboro.
Notable Changes for Michigan
With a significant roster overhaul, Michigan welcomes eight new players for the 2025-26 season. This group includes notable transfers such as Yaxel Lendeborg from UAB, who was named to the 2025-26 Preseason All-Big Ten Team. Lendeborg made an impact at UAB, averaging 17.7 points and 11.4 rebounds per game during his last season.
- Junior transfers: Yaxel Lendeborg (UAB), Elliot Cadeau (North Carolina), Morez Johnson Jr. (Illinois), Aday Mara (UCLA)
- Freshman signees highlighted by Trey McKenney and sharpshooter Winters Grady.
Upcoming Honors and Celebrations
Michigan plans to honor former star Trey Burke by raising his number 3 jersey at Crisler Center during the Ohio State game on January 23. Burke will be the sixth Wolverine to receive this honor. Additionally, the Wolverines will unveil their 2025 Big Ten Tournament championship banner during the season opener against Oakland on November 3, where the first 5,000 fans will receive a replica banner.
As the Wolverines gear up to host Cincinnati, excitement is high for the upcoming season and the potential of the new roster.
