Dec 29, 2025; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) passes in the first half against the McNeese Cowboys at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

USC vs Michigan Prediction 1/2/2026 Today’s College Basketball Picks

Pick details

MATCHUP USC Trojans Michigan Wolverines
Team Records 12-2 13-0
Where Crisler Center, Ann Arbor, MI
When Friday, January 2, 2026
Time 07:00 PM EST
TV Peacock

The USC Trojans and Michigan Wolverines meet Friday in the college basketball action at the Crisler Center. Here’s a USC vs Michigan Prediction. This article will include a USC vs Michigan Pick.

USC Trojans Betting Preview


The USC Trojans beat Washington State and UTSA, and they play Michigan State next. USC has won 12 of its last 13 games.

The USC Trojans are averaging 89.5 points on 49.5 percent shooting and allowing 75.4 points on 40.7 percent shooting. Chad Baker-Mazara is averaging 21 points and 3.2 assists, while Rodney Rice is averaging 20.3 points and 6 assists. Ezra Ausar is the third double-digit scorer and Jacob Cofie is grabbing 6.7 rebounds. The USC Trojans are shooting 36.5 percent from beyond the arc and 73.6 percent from the free throw line. The USC Trojans are allowing 31.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 35 rebounds per game.

Michigan Wolverines Betting Preview


The Michigan Wolverines beat McNeese and La Salle, and they play Penn State next. Michigan has won 12 straight games.

The Michigan Wolverines are averaging 96.8 points on 53.6 percent shooting and allowing 66.5 points on 34.6 percent shooting. Yaxel Lendeborg is averaging 15.7 points and 3.6 assists, while Morez Johnson Jr. is averaging 13.6 points and 6.8 rebounds. Aday Mara is the third double-digit scorer and Trey McKenney is grabbing 3 rebounds. The Michigan Wolverines are shooting 38.3 percent from beyond the arc and 71.2 percent from the free throw line. The Michigan Wolverines are allowing 29.5 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 42.4 rebounds per game.

Why the Michigan Wolverines will win

  • Michigan has won each of its last 10 night games.
  • USC has lost each of its last four night games against AP-ranked opponents.
  • USC has lost the first half in five of its last six games as an AP-ranked team against an AP-ranked team.

Why the USC Trojans will win

  • USC has won each of its last five night games.
  • Michigan has lost eight of its last 10 night games against AP-ranked opponents at Crisler Center.
  • Michigan has lost the first half in three of its last four games against AP-ranked opponents at Crisler Center.

Total Points Facts

  • Each of Michigan’s last 38 night games against the Big Ten Conference at Crisler Center have produced a total of 166 or fewer points.
  • Each of USC’s last 30 night games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 168 or fewer points.

Matchup/League Facts

  • Michigan ranks 1st among Division 1 teams for net rating this season (+40.0).
  • Michigan is one of only two teams to reach the Sweet 16 in each of its last five NCAA Tournament appearances.
  • USC ranks 5th among Division 1 teams for blocks per game this season (6.5).
  • USC ranks 24th among Division 1 teams for points per game this season (89.4).

USC vs Michigan Prediction


I get Michigan has been a buzz saw all season as it’s not only undefeated on the season and 9-3 ATS, but a lot of these wins have been complete domination. I get it. However, USC is a good team that can score with any in the country and has legit players who can take over games. It just feels weird leaving this many points on the table. Sure, Michigan has blown the doors off great competition already, but I can’t eat 20-plus points with guys like Baker-Mazara and Ausar on the other side. Give me USC and the points.

Randy Chambers's Pick: USC +21.5

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