If you’re waking up on this Martin Luther King Jr. Day wondering what time is the u of m game today, you've probably noticed the schedule looks a bit different than a typical Monday. Usually, Mondays are quiet in the world of college athletics. Not today.
Today is January 19, 2026, and the University of Michigan has a massive double-feature on the docket.
The headliner? A top-10 showdown for the women’s basketball team. They aren't in Ann Arbor, though. They've traveled to the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, for the Coretta Scott King Classic. It's a huge stage.
The Quick Answer: Tip-Off Times and Channels
The Michigan women's basketball game starts at 2:30 PM ET. You can catch that one on FOX.
Earlier in the day, the men’s tennis team faces off against No. 9 NC State at 11:00 AM ET.
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If you were looking for the men's basketball team, you're actually a day early. They don't play today. Dusty May’s squad is resting up for a Tuesday night clash at Crisler Center against Indiana. That one is set for tomorrow, January 20, at 7:00 PM ET on Peacock.
Why the Michigan Women's Game is a Big Deal
Honestly, this isn't just another mid-season non-conference game. Michigan is currently ranked No. 8 in the country. They are 15-2. They're playing No. 5 Vanderbilt, who is—get this—undefeated at 18-0.
This is basically the game of the week in women's college hoops.
The Coretta Scott King Classic was built to honor the legacy of the King family, and the atmosphere in Newark is expected to be electric. Michigan is coming off a solid stretch, but Vanderbilt looks like a juggernaut this year. If you're a fan of high-level defense and transition scoring, you’ll want to be on the couch by 2:30.
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Watching from Home
Because it’s a national holiday, the game got a prime broadcast slot on FOX. No digging through obscure streaming apps or worrying about regional blackouts for this one.
- Game: #8 Michigan vs. #5 Vanderbilt
- Time: 2:30 PM ET
- Location: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ
- TV Channel: FOX
What About the Men’s Teams?
It’s a common mix-up. People see "U of M" and think football or men's basketball immediately.
Football season is, sadly, over. The Wolverines wrapped things up on New Year's Eve in the Citrus Bowl against Texas. It wasn't the ending fans wanted—a 41-27 loss—but the focus has already shifted to the 2026 recruiting class and spring ball.
As for the men's basketball team, they just finished a brutal but successful West Coast road trip. They beat Washington and Oregon back-to-back. They’re currently 16-1 and looking like serious Big Ten contenders.
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They play tomorrow night (Tuesday) against Indiana.
Other Wolverine Action Today
If you’re a die-hard who follows every jersey with a Block M, the tennis courts are where the action starts. The No. 9 ranked NC State Wolfpack is hosting Michigan at 11:00 AM.
Tennis might not get the "Big House" crowds, but this is a top-tier matchup. Michigan has been hovering around the top 15 all season. A win in Raleigh would be a massive statement for the program.
Recap of the Full U of M Schedule (Jan 19, 2026)
- 11:00 AM ET: Men's Tennis at #9 NC State (Raleigh, NC)
- 2:30 PM ET: Women's Basketball vs. #5 Vanderbilt (FOX)
Pro Tip for Fans
If you're planning to watch the basketball game, keep an eye on the earlier matchup at the Prudential Center between TCU and Ohio State. These holiday tournaments sometimes run long if a game goes into overtime.
Usually, FOX is pretty good about sliding the start time, but if you tune in right at 2:30 and see Buckeyes on the screen, don't panic. Our game will follow immediately after.
Next Steps for Michigan Fans:
Check your local listings to ensure FOX hasn't shifted the game to FS1 in your specific market, though a national broadcast usually stays put. If you’re heading to Crisler tomorrow for the men's game, remember it’s the MLK Day Celebration game—expect some special ceremonies before the 7:00 PM tip.