Player of the Week:
Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan
Yaxel Lendeborg delivered a statement performance in No. 1 Michigan’s road win over No. 7 Purdue with significant NBA Draft implications. The key swing skill for scouts has been his perimeter shooting, and he answered by knocking down three three-pointers while adding seven assists, two blocks, and a steal, further highlighting his versatility and high-motor point-forward profile. Michigan followed with a tough road loss at No. 2 Duke, but Lendeborg again produced against a higher-level opponent, reinforcing both his lottery-level case and the Wolverines’ status as legitimate national title contenders despite the setback.
Who’s Hot:
Devin Royal, Ohio State
The former top in-state recruit has had an uneven career at Ohio State, but Devin Royal put together an efficient and productive stretch this week. Renewed confidence from beyond the arc helped fuel a season-high 25-point performance in a win over Wisconsin, highlighted by four made threes. With John Mobley Jr. sidelined, Royal’s three-level scoring has become even more critical to the Buckeyes’ offense. Ohio State has picked up momentum and will lean heavily on Royal as it enters a difficult stretch against Michigan State, Iowa, and Purdue.
Michigan Wolverines
Michigan continues to block out the noise and build the nation’s strongest résumé, with its only loss coming back in early January against Wisconsin. The Wolverines added a marquee road win at Purdue this week after handling UCLA and Northwestern comfortably. One of the most notable developments has been their collective improvement from three-point range. Once viewed primarily as a size-and-athleticism team, Michigan’s frontcourt of Yaxel Lendeborg, Morez Johnson Jr., and Aday Mara has made meaningful progress as perimeter threats. Their ability to stretch the floor adds a new dimension to an already imposing roster. Michigan won’t have much time to settle, however, with a major test awaiting at Duke.
Who’s Not:
Donovan Dent, UCLA
After showing signs of regaining his form as a primary creator, Donovan Dent struggled this week against the size and physicality of Michigan and Michigan State. He committed nine turnovers across the two games and shot just 34 percent from the field while missing all six of his three-point attempts. The Bruins dropped both contests decisively, and the defensive pressure provided a glimpse of the challenges Dent could face at the next level. With time winding down in his college career, consistency and efficiency will be key.
Nebraska Cornhuskers
Nebraska’s early 20-0 start has cooled, with the Cornhuskers losing four of their last six games. While most contests have been competitive, rebounding has emerged as a major concern. Nebraska has been significantly outrebounded in its recent losses and ranks last in the conference in offensive rebounds per game. The lack of physicality and second-chance opportunities has limited the team’s ceiling. Fortunately, the toughest portion of the schedule is largely behind them as they look to address those issues entering March.
Top 5 Freshmen in the Big Ten
1. Keaton Wagler, Illinois
A high-usage jumbo guard whose rapid rise has made him one of the most productive freshmen in the country. Wagler combines size, pace, and advanced shot-making ability, operating comfortably as a primary creator while scoring efficiently at all three levels. His poise, decision-making, and ability to control tempo have given Illinois a reliable offensive engine well beyond typical freshman expectations.
2. Hannes Steinbach, Washington
A smart, physical frontcourt presence with advanced feel and positional awareness. Steinbach plays with a polished European approach, using strength, timing, and touch to score efficiently around the basket while also facilitating from the high post. His discipline, rebounding instincts, and defensive positioning provide Washington with steady interior production and long-term upside.
3. David Mirkovic, Illinois
An offensive hub in the frontcourt who blends interior scoring with playmaking versatility. Mirkovic’s ability to operate from the post, make reads out of double teams, and stretch the floor adds a unique dimension to Illinois’ offense. His skill level and feel allow him to impact the game without needing high volume, making him one of the more versatile freshman bigs in the conference.
4. Kayden Mingo, Penn State
An explosive guard whose speed and physicality immediately pressure opposing defenses. Mingo thrives attacking downhill, generating paint touches and transition opportunities while also showing flashes of playmaking growth. His defensive energy and ability to disrupt opposing ball handlers point to a high-ceiling two-way backcourt piece.
5. Braden Frager, Nebraska
A long, connective wing who has steadily carved out a valuable role by playing within the flow of the offense. Frager impacts the game through spacing, secondary playmaking, and defensive versatility, using his length and instincts to guard multiple positions. His improving confidence as a perimeter shooter and decision-maker continues to raise his long-term value.
Honorable Mention:
Trey McKenney, Michigan
A physical scoring guard who brings toughness and shot creation off the bench, providing Michigan with instant offense and energy while continuing to develop his efficiency and all-around impact.