
Tue Jan 06 02:20:00 UTC 2026: Michigan Wolverines Dominate USC Trojans in Decisive Victory
Morez Johnson Jr. delivered a career-high 29 points as No. 2 Michigan cruised to a 96-66 victory over No. 24 Southern California on Friday night in Ann Arbor. The Wolverines (13-0, 3-0 Big Ten) showcased a strong offensive performance, with Roddy Gayle Jr. adding 12 points and Will Tschetter, Trey McKenney, and L.J. Cason each contributing 10. Michigan’s stifling defense forced early turnovers, helping them build a commanding lead.
USC (12-2, 1-2) struggled to keep pace, with Jaden Brownell scoring 16 points and Erza Ausar adding 15. Chad Baker-Mazara, averaging 21 points coming into the game, was limited to 12 points due to foul trouble. The Wolverines are off to their best start since the 2018-19 season when they won 17 straight games. A concerning moment came when Michigan’s Nimari Burnett was helped off the court with a possible ankle injury and a cut above his eyebrow.
- Morez Johnson Jr. scored a career-high 29 points.
- Michigan’s record is now 13-0, their best start since 2018-19.
- USC’s Chad Baker-Mazara was hampered by foul trouble, scoring only 12 points.
- Michigan starting guard Nimari Burnett left the game due to injury.
- USC will play at No. 9 Michigan State on Monday, while Michigan visits Penn State on Tuesday.