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B1G escape
No. 3 Michigan got pushed by Iowa, but still managed some more history in the process. Plus: Three more teams claimed regular-season titles, we had thrilling finishes in conference tournaments - including a buzzer-beater - and we set up what's happening today, including Miami (Ohio)'s chance for 31-0.
Tristan Freeman
March 06, 2026
Good morning! Its Friday, we’ve got daytime basketball tipping off in a few hours and you’re here to get caught up on Thursday’s news.
It’s gonna be a great day.
In partnership with D1.relocation
1. Michigan steps into 1976 Indiana territory
Michigan’s been a dominant team this season, with 10 of its 27 victories coming by 30+ points. But only one of those blowout wins came in a true road setting, so maybe it shouldn’t have been a huge surprise to see the No. 3 Wolverines get pushed in a 71-68 win at Iowa on Thursday night.
Michigan struggled with first-half turnovers, yet seemed to have the game in control with a 10-point lead and just six minutes left. When Iowa used an 11-1 run to tie the game with 1:56 to play, the Wolverines turned to what’s worked all season: Their size.
Aday Mara hit a pair of tiebreaking shots in the final 1:22 (he finished with 14 points), including a smartly designed play on the first basket.
Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz scored a game-high 21 points, but needed 23 shots to do it. His desperation 3-pointer missed at the buzzer.
The victory made Michigan (28-2, 18-1 Big Ten) the first Big Ten team to go unbeaten on the road in conference play since Indiana in 1976-77. Coach Dusty May took pride in that fact. “It probably won't ever happen again due to the parity of college basketball and how it’s shaping up,” he said.
All three key big men played well, with Mara, Yaxel Lendeborg, and Morez Johnson Jr. combining to produce 46 points and 24 rebounds. They dominated the glass (38-25), and if not for turnovers, it might not have been a close game. Iowa scored 29 points off turnovers.
For the Hawkeyes (20-10, 10-9), it’s their fifth loss by six points or fewer on the season. A win likely would’ve sealed an at-large berth, but they’re safely on the right side of the bubble. It closes at Nebraska on Sunday.
2. Howard, South Florida, Utah Valley clinch titles + more results
Another night, another reason for some regular-season celebrations. On Thursday, it was Howard, South Florida and Utah Valley that clinched titles.
