Undefeated Michigan Hosts Hot McNeese State in Non-Conference Finale ANN ARBOR, Mich. (Interstat) — The undefeated and No. 2-ranked Michigan Wolverines put their perfect record on the line Monday night when they host the surging McNeese State Cowboys in a non-conference men’s basketball clash at Crisler Center. Michigan (11-0) enters as one of the nation’s most dominant teams, winning by an average margin of 31.5 points. Their most recent outing was a 102-50 demolition of La Salle on Dec. 21, where sophomore center Aday Mara recorded a double-double with 14 points, 10 rebounds and four assists. The 7-foot-3 Spaniard has been a force, averaging 11.8 points and 4.0 blocks over his last five games. “We’re playing with great confidence, but we know this is a dangerous game before Big Ten play resumes,” Michigan coach Dusty May said. “McNeese is well-coached and has guys who can really score.” The Cowboys (10-2) have won five straight since a two-point road loss to Incarnate Word on Dec. 1. They are coming off a 78-68 win at Houston Christian on Dec. 15. Guard Larry Johnson, who scored 22 points in that victory, leads the charge. Over the last five games, Johnson is averaging 13.8 points, including a 17-point performance in just 18 minutes in a 102-66 rout of Texas A&M-Commerce. “They’re athletic, they pressure, and Johnson can get hot in a hurry,” May said of the Cowboys. “We have to be disciplined defensively.” McNeese State’s resume includes a notable 66-64 win at Rhode Island on Dec. 9. However, this matchup represents their toughest test of the season by a significant margin. Michigan’s strength of schedule is ranked in the top 10, with convincing wins over then-Gonzaga (101-61), Auburn (102-72) and at Maryland (101-83). The Wolverines’ offense is a machine, leading the nation in assists per game (22.4) and field goal percentage (54.8%). Beyond Mara, they feature balanced scoring with four players averaging double figures, led by sophomore guard Trey McKenney (16.7 ppg). For McNeese State, containing Michigan’s size and ball movement will be the primary challenge. Alongside Johnson, guards Javohn Garcia and forward Jerrell Colbert have provided consistent production. This game concludes non-conference play for both squads. Michigan opens Big Ten Conference play at home against Southern California on Jan. 2. McNeese State begins Southland Conference action at home against Lamar on Jan. 3. Tip-off is scheduled for 9 p.m. EST Monday. The game will be televised on the Big Ten Network.