Wolverine Digest

Michigan State loss to Indiana leaves Michigan hoops alone in first place in Big Ten standings

Michigan State's shocking loss to a reeling Indiana squad puts Dusty May and his Wolverines in sole possession of first place
Jerred Johnson|
Michigan guard Tre Donaldson (3) celebrates a three point basket against Purdue during the second half at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025.
Michigan guard Tre Donaldson (3) celebrates a three point basket against Purdue during the second half at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

After Michigan's (19-5,11-2) thrilling victory over 7th-ranked Purdue (19-6,11-3) at the Crisler Center, the Wolverines found themselves perched atop the Big Ten standings, standing alone in first place. Many believed that this lead would be short-lived, especially with rival Michigan State (19-5,10-3) slated to tip off against a struggling Indiana (15-10, 6-8) squad at the Breslin Center. A win for the Spartans would tie them with Michigan at an 11-2 conference record, but the Hoosiers had other plans.

Indiana shocked the 11th-ranked Spartans with a 71-67 victory, leaving MSU reeling and handing Michigan a full-game lead in the Big Ten standings over MSU. This unexpected upset not only gave the Wolverines a stronger grip on first place but also likely ensured they would climb ahead of the Spartans in the rankings as well. The loss to Indiana stung for Michigan State, but it only intensified the race for the conference crown.

Looking ahead, Michigan and Michigan State are on a collision course set for February 21st at Crisler Center, a game that could have huge implications on who controls the Big Ten championship race. Before that critical showdown, MSU faces two significant challenges: a tough road game at Illinois followed by a home contest against a wounded Purdue team. Meanwhile, Michigan heads to Columbus to face Ohio State before getting a five-day rest period to prepare for their rivalry clash with the Spartans.

Fans
Michigan student section celebrate a play against Purdue during the first half at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Big Ten race is heating up, and Michigan has positioned itself in prime contention for the conference title. With a favorable schedule ahead and momentum from their recent win over Purdue, the Wolverines will look to solidify their hold on first place as the season heads toward its final stretch. A win against Michigan State would not only give them a crucial tiebreaker over their rivals but could also be the pivotal moment in their pursuit of the Big Ten championship. The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to one of the most competitive conference races in recent memory, and Michigan is right in the thick of it with a clear path toward their goal.

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Jerred Johnson
JERRED JOHNSON

Jerred Johnson has served in the United States military for over 23 years. He has a Bachelors in Marketing, a Masters in Management and is in the final phases of completing his Doctorate in Business Administration.

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