If you’re scrambling around your living room wondering what channel is Michigan basketball game on, you’re definitely not alone. The Big Ten's newest TV deal is basically a giant puzzle. Honestly, it feels like you need a PhD in media rights just to find a tip-off time lately.
Tonight, Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the No. 4 Michigan Wolverines are out in Seattle to face the Washington Huskies. This isn't just a random road trip; it's Michigan’s first visit to Alaska Airlines Arena in over 30 years.
Where to Find the Game Tonight
You can catch the action on the Big Ten Network (BTN).
Tip-off is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET. Yes, it’s a late one. Since it’s a West Coast swing, those of us in Ann Arbor have to brew an extra pot of coffee if we want to see the final buzzer. Guy Haberman and Don MacLean are the voices on the call for this one.
If you aren't near a TV, you can stream it through the Fox Sports app, but you’ll need your cable provider login to get past the gate.
The Maze of Michigan Basketball TV Schedules
It used to be simple. You’d check ESPN or maybe the local affiliate. Now? It’s a mess of apps and channels.
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For the 2025-26 season, the Wolverines are spread across a staggering number of platforms. We're talking CBS, FOX, NBC, FS1, BTN, and the one everyone loves to hate: Peacock.
Peacock is actually broadcasting six Michigan games this year. If you miss those, you're just out of luck. It's not like the old days where you could find a replay on a local sub-channel. Even the Big Ten Tournament's opening rounds are moving to Peacock now.
Breaking Down the Remaining 2026 Schedule
Because the channel changes literally every game, here is a quick look at where the next few matchups are landing:
- Jan 17 at Oregon: NBC (4:00 p.m. ET)
- Jan 20 vs. Indiana: Peacock (7:00 p.m. ET)
- Jan 23 vs. Ohio State: FOX (8:00 p.m. ET)
- Jan 27 vs. Nebraska: Peacock (7:00 p.m. ET)
- Jan 30 at Michigan State: FOX (8:00 p.m. ET)
Notice a pattern? There isn't one. One night you're on broadcast TV, the next you're paying $7.99 for a streaming sub. It’s annoying. I get it.
Why This Washington Game Actually Matters
Michigan is coming off a brutal 91-88 loss to Wisconsin. They were 14-0 before that. 14-0!
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Dusty May has this team playing at a breakneck pace. They dropped 121 points on Oakland earlier this year, which is just insane for college ball. But that loss to the Badgers showed some cracks in the armor.
Yaxel Lendeborg has been the engine, but rumors of a calf injury have fans worried. He hasn't looked quite as explosive in the last two outings. If Michigan wants to prove they haven't peaked too early, they have to handle a Washington team that is tough at home.
The Huskies are 10-6 and desperate for a signature win. In the Big Ten, a "desperate" home team is the scariest thing in the world.
Viewing Options for Cord Cutters
If you’ve ditched traditional cable, finding what channel is Michigan basketball game on gets a little easier if you have the right service.
- YouTube TV / FuboTV / Hulu + Live TV: All of these carry Big Ten Network. They are the most reliable ways to get about 90% of the schedule.
- Sling TV: You usually need the "Sports Extra" package to get BTN, so double-check your subscription before 10:30 p.m. rolls around.
- B1G+: This is the Big Ten’s own streaming service. Warning: They do NOT usually show the live conference games that are on BTN or FOX. They mostly do Olympic sports and replays. Don't buy it tonight thinking you'll see the Washington game live; you’ll be disappointed.
Strategy for the Rest of the Season
Don't wait until five minutes before tip-off to check the listings.
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The Big Ten loves to flex games. While the dates usually stay the same, the times and specific "flavor" of the Fox channel (FS1 vs. FOX) can shift.
Also, keep an eye on the "Duel in the District" coming up in February against Duke. That one is on ESPN, which is rare for Big Ten teams these days since the new TV deal kicked in. It’s one of the few times you’ll see the Wolverines on a Disney-owned network this year.
Final Checklist for Tonight
- Channel: Big Ten Network
- Time: 10:30 p.m. ET / 7:30 p.m. PT
- Location: Seattle, WA
- Radio: 95.0 WWJ in Detroit (if you're driving)
To stay ahead of the game, download the Michigan Athletics app. They actually do a decent job of updating the TV designation about 48 hours before the game. If you're planning a watch party for the Michigan State game on the 30th, just remember that one is a FOX "Big Noon" style broadcast but at night.
Grab your remote, find BTN, and get ready for a late night.