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Michigan (14-1) vs Washington (10-6)
- When: Jan 14 2026, 10:30 PM
- Where: Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion, Seattle, WA, USA
- Where to watch: BTN
(4) Michigan vs Washington Preview & Prediction
Spread: Michigan -12.5
Moneyline: Michigan (-1000)
Total: 164.5
Michigan Wolverines Betting Breakdown
Michigan has spent most of the season steamrolling opponents, often turning games into non competitive exercises by halftime. That dominance finally hit a speed bump, and the Wolverines now head west with something to prove. After flirting with trouble in a narrow road win and then dropping their first game outright, Michigan finds itself in rare bounce back mode.
The Wolverines have not played their cleanest basketball lately. Offensive execution slipped late against Wisconsin, shot selection tightened up, and defensive intensity dipped just enough to let a quality opponent close strong. From a betting angle, this is usually when elite teams refocus. Michigan has thrived all season when challenged, and their scoring margin shows how dangerous they are when locked in.
Elliot Cadeau continues to grow into a major offensive piece, providing scoring punch and pace control. Michigan’s ability to score quickly in transition and punish mistakes keeps spreads manageable even when they start slowly. On the road, the emphasis should be urgency early rather than relying on late separation.
Wolverines Player Prop Pick: Elliot Cadeau over 17.5 points – Cadeau’s role expands in fast paced games, and Michigan leans on him to score when tempo increases
Washington Huskies Betting Breakdown
Washington enters this matchup feeling good about its home form and recent performance. The Huskies have been far more comfortable in their own building, using energy and shot making to build momentum. Their win over Ohio State highlighted what they can be when rhythm and confidence align.
Hannes Steinbach is the engine. He dominates the glass, finishes efficiently, and gives Washington a reliable interior presence against bigger teams. When he establishes position early, the Huskies can keep games competitive longer than expected. Zoom Diallo adds perimeter scoring and thrives when the pace increases.
The challenge is consistency. Washington can score, but defensive lapses and turnovers often snowball against elite offenses. Against a Michigan team that punishes mistakes instantly, the Huskies must value possessions and slow the game down whenever possible.
Huskies Player Prop Pick: Hannes Steinbach over 18.5 points – Steinbach’s efficiency inside and rebounding presence keep his scoring floor steady, especially in home games
Expert Final Score Prediction
Michigan enters this game with clear motivation after their first loss and a short memory for sloppy finishes. Washington’s home court helps, but the Wolverines’ depth, pace, and scoring efficiency are difficult to sustain against for forty minutes.
The spread is large, yet Michigan has shown all season it can separate quickly once defensive pressure ramps up. Washington should score enough to keep the total in range, but stopping Michigan for long stretches is unlikely.
Michigan responds with a focused performance, covers the number, and reestablishes its dominance, while Washington remains competitive early before depth and tempo decide the outcome.
Final Score: Michigan 92, Washington 77
Lean: Michigan -12.5
Total: Over 164.5
- NCAAB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
