In the rowdy environment of West Lafayette that was chanting profanity at Yaxel Lendeborg, Purdue jumped out to a 5-0 edge. Michigan basketball was unfazed and climbed its way to a double-digit lead at the halfway point of the opening stanza. The lead never dipped below single digits again until it was 81-73 with two minutes to go in what ended up as a 91-80 win.
Here are three takeaways from Michigan's memo to Purdue and the entire Big Ten: that they are head and shoulders above the rest.
Its been 12 years since Michigan won at Purdue and Michigan State in the same season
January 25 and February 26 of 2014 was the last time the Wolverines went into East Lansing and West Lafayette and left as winners. If they win in Champagne next Friday, you can add Illinois to this list. They were not ranked in the top 15 in either win that year, but on Tuesday night, they confirmed to those who still doubt them that they are the alpha of the sport. Yaxel Lendeborg's video that went viral about Purdue was not wise, but he and his teammates made sure that the haters would have no rebuttal.
Aday Mara is the first Wolverine to foul out of a game in over a month
Morez Johnson Jr. was the last Wolverine to do it in the two point win at Happy Valley. Mara's first personal came at the 16:22 mark of the first half. His next whistle didn't come until there was left then a minute remaining in the period. He committed number three quickly after the break and was immediatley subbed to the bench. His last foul came when the outcome had been decided and he did his damage with his fifth double-double of the season.
Michigan has played seven KenPom top 50 teams away from home and won all seven by double digits.
— Brandon Koretz (@BrandonKoretz) February 18, 2026
vs. No. 40 San Diego St by 40
vs. No. 32 Auburn by 30
vs. No. 10 Gonzaga by 40
at No. 47 Washington by 10
at No. 13 Michigan St by 12
at No. 41 Ohio St by 21
at No. 8 Purdue by 11
15 conference wins is tied for the most wins in Big Ten history
Twice during the John Beilein era Michigan basketball won 15 games in conference history. In one week, they will surpass that feat barring a miracle. 17 wins will all but earn them a Big Ten title, but Michigan has 19 in its sights, and it is reasonably achievable. Beating teams like Purdue, Michigan State, and Ohio State on the road, along the way to get there, has been absolutely glorious.