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Apr 07, 2026

Michigan captures first NCAA men’s basketball championship since 1989 with 69‑63 upset of UConn

AI Summary
The Michigan Wolverines defeated the UConn Huskies 69‑63 to win their first NCAA men’s basketball title in 37 years, overcoming a poor three‑point night and relying on clutch free‑throw shooting and a standout performance by Elliot Cadeau, who was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player.

Michigan secured its second national crown — the first since 1989 — by edging UConn 69‑63 in a gritty Final Four showdown that tested both teams’ resolve.

Despite making only two three‑pointers all night (a 2‑for‑15 effort from beyond the arc), the Wolverines leaned on disciplined defense and a flawless free‑throw line, converting 25 of 28 attempts in the closing minutes.

Elliot Cadeau emerged as the game’s catalyst, pouring in 19 points, including Michigan’s inaugural three‑point basket of the night 7:04 into the second half. His performance earned him the Most Outstanding Player honor for the Final Four.

The decisive blow came when freshman Trey McKenney sank the Wolverines’ second three‑pointer with 1:50 remaining, extending the lead to nine points and forcing UConn into a frantic chase.

UConn fought back valiantly; Solo Ball knocked down a three‑pointer with 37 seconds left to trim the deficit to four, and senior guard Alex Karaban added 17 points. However, missed free throws and a sub‑31% field‑goal percentage (30.9%) hampered the Huskies’ comeback.

Injured graduate transfer Yaxel Lendeborg contributed 13 points on 4‑for‑13 shooting despite a sore knee and foot, while UConn’s leading scorer Braylon Mullins struggled, finishing 4‑for‑17 from the floor.

Coach Dan Hurley watched his squad battle foul trouble and a cold shooting night, ultimately seeing the trophy travel to Ann Arbor instead of Storrs.

Michigan closed the night with a 37‑3 record, capping a tournament run that had previously featured five straight 90‑point blowouts — a contrast to the defensive, low‑scoring finale that delivered the program’s long‑awaited championship.