As the calendar turns to February, college basketball fans are beginning to catch the faintest whiff of the madness. Each game becomes more pivotal, and it’s as important as ever for teams to come out on the winning side.
For some, however, that wasn’t the case this weekend.
Winner: Michigan Wolverines
The Wolverines had the strongest week of any program. After ending Nebraska’s undefeated streak Tuesday, Michigan traveled to East Lansing three days later and knocked off No. 7 Michigan State 83-71.
Forward Yaxel Lendeborg continues to be a problem for opponents. The senior scored 26 points to go along with 12 rebounds, marking his sixteenth game in double figures.
The Wolverines’ 20-1 mark matches a school record, and with games against No. 4 Duke and No. 9 Illinois upcoming, Michigan will be among the most battle-tested teams by March.
Loser: Arkansas Razorbacks
Arkansas coach John Calipari faced his former team for the second time Saturday, but unlike last year, he wasn’t on the winning side. Led by veteran Otega Oweh, Kentucky fended off the No. 15 Razorbacks for an 85-77 upset.
The contest was chippy from start to finish, with both teams committing multiple technical fouls. Early in the second half, the Wildcats were charged with three in 38 seconds, but Arkansas ultimately couldn’t gain momentum afterward.