Wisconsin Badgers vs Michigan Wolverines Picks and Predictions for Saturday March 14 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 03/14/2026, 01:50 AM ET

The Wisconsin Badgers face the Michigan Wolverines in the Big Ten Tournament Semifinal on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Tip-off is scheduled for 1:00 PM ET with television coverage on CBS. Michigan is favored by -12.5 with the total set at 160.5, while Wisconsin is +600 on the moneyline and Michigan is -900. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more daily betting insights and predictions.

Badgers Look to Keep Momentum Alive After Overtime Thriller

The Wisconsin Badgers enter the Big Ten Tournament semifinal with a 24-9 overall record and a 14-6 conference record. Wisconsin advanced to this round after recently winning over Illinois 91-88 in overtime in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinal. The Badgers have been playing excellent basketball lately, recently winning over Illinois, Washington twice, Purdue, and Maryland.

Wisconsin has been a productive offensive team this season, averaging 83.3 points per game while allowing 76.2 points per game. The Badgers shoot 45% from the field and average 35.7 rebounds and 16.0 assists per game. Defensively they contribute 3.1 blocks and 5.6 steals per contest, while their balanced offense allows them to score efficiently from both the perimeter and inside.

In their quarterfinal win over Illinois, Wisconsin leaned heavily on Nick Boyd, who delivered an outstanding performance with 38 points while also contributing six assists. On the glass, Austin Rapp led the Badgers with nine rebounds, helping Wisconsin remain competitive in a tightly contested matchup. The overtime victory required heavy minutes from key players, which could be a factor on the short turnaround heading into this semifinal against a deep Michigan squad.

Subscribe Now

I authorize Picks And Parlays to send me promotional emails

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.

Terms & Conditions

Wolverines Continue Dominant Big Ten Campaign

The Michigan Wolverines enter the semifinal with a 30-2 overall record and a 19-1 conference record, making them one of the most dominant teams in the country this season. Michigan advanced to this round after recently winning over Ohio State 71-67 in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinal. The Wolverines have been in excellent form recently, recently winning over Ohio State, Michigan State, Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota.

Michigan has been one of the most efficient offensive teams in the Big Ten this season, averaging 88.4 points per game while allowing 69.0 points per game. The Wolverines shoot 51% from the field and average 40.4 rebounds and 18.8 assists per game, demonstrating both scoring efficiency and strong ball movement. Defensively they contribute 5.9 blocks and 5.8 steals per game, using their size and athleticism to control the paint.

In their quarterfinal victory over Ohio State, Michigan relied on a strong performance from Aday Mara, who led the team with 17 points and seven rebounds, providing both scoring and interior presence. The Wolverines also controlled the rebounding battle and played efficient defense, holding Ohio State to just 38% shooting from the field. That defensive consistency could be critical against Wisconsin’s high-scoring offense.

Wisconsin vs Michigan Pick

Wisconsin vs Michigan Spread Pick

Pick: Wisconsin +12.5

Wisconsin enters this matchup with strong offensive momentum after scoring 91 points against Illinois, and their ability to stretch the floor could help them stay competitive against Michigan. While the Wolverines have been dominant throughout the season, Wisconsin’s offensive firepower and recent form give them a chance to keep the game closer than expected. With Michigan likely focusing on advancing rather than running up the score, the Badgers have value catching double digits.

Wisconsin vs Michigan Total Pick

Pick: Over 160.5

I like the over in this matchup because both teams have offenses capable of scoring quickly and efficiently. Michigan averages nearly 89 points per game and shoots over 50% from the field, while Wisconsin has been playing high-scoring games recently, including a 91-point outing in their quarterfinal. With two strong offenses and plenty of offensive talent on the floor, I expect this game to push past the total.

Final Score Prediction: Michigan 87, Wisconsin 79

Betting on College Basketball?

Join Picks and Parlays premium for free and get a free $30 coupon with code FREE30
Get started and wager on college hoops today with our favorite online sportsbooks
Claim a CBB betting bonus offer with the best sportsbook promos