Overview
- Michigan, which edged UConn 69-63 on Monday at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, was led by Elliot Cadeau’s 19 points and his Final Four Most Outstanding Player honor.
- Michigan won by pounding the paint and cashing free throws, finishing 36-22 inside and 25-of-28 at the line despite a 2-for-15 night from three and a 46-39 rebounding deficit, while Yaxel Lendeborg played through a sprained left MCL and ankle.
- UConn shot 31% as open threes stopped falling after halftime, stalling a push for a third national championship in four seasons under coach Dan Hurley.
- The championship is Michigan’s first since 1989 and second overall, capping a tournament run that featured five earlier wins by double digits.
- Dusty May’s team became the first national champion to start five transfers, highlighting how portal-built lineups can win right away.