The University of Michigan men's basketball team, ranked third nationally with a 19-1 record, is set to face seventh-ranked Michigan State at the Breslin Center in East Lansing on January 30, 2026. Both teams are tied at 9-1 in Big Ten play, making this game crucial for the league lead. Michigan leads the all-time series but has struggled at Breslin in recent years, with only three wins in the last 25 visits, and last won there in 2018. This matchup is notable as the highest-ranked rivalry game ever between the two programs, with both teams in the top 10. Michigan has rebounded from a recent loss to Wisconsin with five consecutive wins, including a narrow 75-72 victory over Nebraska, where Trey McKenney scored the go-ahead basket. The Wolverines are on pace to match their best 20-game start in program history. Key players include Yaxel Lendeborg, who averages 14.2 points and 7 rebounds, and Morez Johnson Jr., who leads the Big Ten in field-goal percentage at 69.3%. The game will be televised on Fox with commentary by Gus Johnson, Bill Raftery, and Allison Williams. Michigan aims to secure its first win at Breslin since 2018 and to maintain its position atop the Big Ten standings. Separately, on the sports show 'Steady Droppin Dimes,' analysts discuss Michigan basketball legends, including Trey Burke's place among the greatest Wolverines, and debate which Big Ten team poses the biggest threat to Michigan's conference title hopes. The conversation also covers Michigan's recent performances, guard play concerns, defensive improvements, and rivalry stories involving Michigan and Michigan State. The show features insights from former players and coaches, emphasizing the significance of this upcoming matchup in the context of the Big Ten race and Michigan State rivalry history.