Rutgers men’s basketball has a crucial game on Thursday night against Michigan in the second round of the Big Ten Tournament. With a win, Rutgers is likely to book a ticket to the NCAA Tournament.
No. 8 Rutgers (18-13, 10-10 Big Ten) will face No. 9 Michigan (17-14, 11-9 Big Ten) in what might be the most intriguing match-up of the second round.
In late February, Michigan beat Rutgers 58-45 at Jersey Mike’s Arena.
Historically, the No. 8 seed Wolverines have owned the Scarlet Knights, beating Rutgers 16 out of 17 times. Rutgers’ first victory over the Wolverines came last year when the RU defeated Michigan 75-67 at Jersey Mike’s Arena. With a Rutgers victory, the Scarlet Knights would advance to take on the No. 1 Purdue on Friday in the next round of the Big Ten Tournament.
Here are the five things to know ahead of No. 9 Rutgers against No. 8 Michigan: