Key Insights from Michigan Basketball’s Triumph Over Purdue

Bassyonni

Published: February 17, 2026 10:51 PM ET

The No. 1 ranked Michigan Wolverines achieved a significant victory against the No. 7 Purdue Boilermakers with a score of 91-80. This win, which took place on a Tuesday, improved Michigan’s overall record to 25-1, enhancing their lead in the Big Ten standings with a 15-1 conference record. This marked their first victory at Purdue since 2021.

Key Insights from Michigan Basketball’s Triumph Over Purdue

Early Dominance

Michigan started the game with an aggressive 15-0 run. This burst allowed them to establish a 25-11 lead, making it difficult for Purdue to recover. Although Purdue narrowed the gap to 81-73 in the closing minutes, Michigan responded quickly to ensure their win.

Outstanding Performance by Elliot Cadeau

Head coach Dusty May praised Elliot Cadeau’s unique offensive skills. Cadeau led the Wolverines with 17 points and contributed seven assists, including six assists in the first half. His clutch shooting was instrumental in maintaining Michigan’s lead throughout the game.

Impact of Offensive Rebounding

Michigan’s dominance in offensive rebounding played a crucial role in their success. They outscored Purdue 14-4 in second-chance points during the first half. Overall, Michigan won the rebounding battle 39-31, with Aday Mara and Morez Johnson Jr. each grabbing 11 boards.

Balanced Team Effort

The Wolverines showcased remarkable depth, with nine players contributing to the score. Six players recorded double digits. Their bench outperformed Purdue’s reserves, scoring 34-15. Trey McKenney and L.J. Cason each added 13 points to bolster Michigan’s offense.

Efficient Ball Movement

Michigan exhibited exceptional ball movement, highlighted by 24 assists on 30 field goals. Their first 14 shots were all assisted, illustrating their unselfish play and connectivity. This resulted in a striking 1.38 points per possession.

Yaxel Lendeborg’s Rising Stardom

Yaxel Lendeborg, despite facing crowd hostility over recent comments, maintained his composure. He contributed 13 points, seven assists, two rebounds, and two blocks. His consistent performance has positioned him as a contender for the Big Ten Player of the Year award.

Aiming for National Championship

Michigan’s top ranking in the AP Poll is well-deserved. With an 11-game winning streak, they demonstrate the attributes of a possible national champion. Their recent victories, including wins against three top-10 teams, underscore their potential. Upcoming, they will face the No. 3 Duke Blue Devils on Saturday at Capital One Arena, Washington D.C.