Exciting Preseason Exhibition: Wolverines Set to Host Cincinnati
The University of Michigan’s men’s basketball team is set to host Cincinnati for an exciting preseason exhibition game at Crisler Center. The matchup on October 17 provides fans the first glimpse of the 2025-26 Wolverines. Tipoff is at 6 p.m. and will be streamed on B1G+.
Wolverines Aim for Strong Start Under Head Coach Dusty May
Dusty May enters his second year as Michigan’s head coach. His first season was impressive, leading the Wolverines to a 27-10 record and securing their fourth Big Ten Tournament title. Michigan reached the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16, only to be toppled by top-seeded Auburn. The Wolverines are ranked No. 7 in the preseason by the Associated Press, their highest ranking since the 2021-22 season.
Historic Matchup
Michigan and Cincinnati face each other for the first time in 33 years. The Wolverines hold a 3-1 advantage in the all-time series. The most notable clash was their 1992 NCAA Final Four game, where Michigan triumphed 76-72.
Cincinnati Looks to Build Momentum
- Last season record: 19-16
- Big 12 conference play: 7-13
- Advanced to College Basketball Crown postseason tournament
- Victory over DePaul, defeated by UCF
Senior guard Day Day Thomas returns as a key player, averaging 10.2 points and 2.7 assists last season. Wes Miller, in his fifth season as head coach, aims to leverage his experience to propel the Bearcats forward.
Michigan Welcomes New Talent
Michigan has revamped its roster with eight newcomers for the 2025-26 season. Noteworthy transfers include Yaxel Lendeborg, Elliot Cadeau, Morez Johnson Jr., and Aday Mara. Additionally, Michigan Mr. Basketball Trey McKenney brings his talents to Ann Arbor. Lendeborg, recognized on the Preseason All-Big Ten Team, is expected to make a significant impact this season.
Honoring Basketball Legends
Michigan will celebrate former consensus National Player of the Year Trey Burke by honoring his jersey on January 23 against Ohio State. Additionally, they will raise their 2025 Big Ten Tournament championship banner during the regular-season opener against Oakland on November 3. The first 5,000 fans can receive a replica banner.
This exhibition against Cincinnati promises to be a thrilling start to the season, as Michigan looks to showcase their refreshed lineup and competitive spirit.
