UCLA hosts top-ranked Michigan in a crucial Big Ten matchup for tournament seeding.

UCLA hosts No. 2 Michigan in a pivotal Big Ten game, with Michigan boasting a 23-1 record and 13-1 league mark, riding a nine-game win streak and ranking No. 1 in the NET. The Wolverines, led by former UCLA center Aday Mara, who averages 11.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game, are on their best start in school history. UCLA, 17-7 and tied for sixth in the Big Ten, aims to secure a top-four seed in the Big Ten Tournament to earn a triple bye, avoiding a grueling five-game, five-day stretch for an NCAA bid. The Bruins, fresh off a win over Washington and with five wins in their last six games, may get a boost if guard Skyy Clark returns from a hamstring injury. Coach Dusty May emphasized focus and composure, noting his team’s maturity compared to last season.