Michigan Dominates Arizona 91-73 to Advance to National Championship
The Michigan Wolverines delivered a historic performance in Indianapolis on Saturday, April 4, 2026, crushing the top-seeded Arizona Wildcats 91-73 in the national semifinal. The victory marks Michigan’s return to the men’s national championship game for the first time since 2018, setting up a high-stakes showdown against UConn on Monday night.
From the opening tip, Michigan established control, jumping to a 16-point lead midway through the first half. While both teams entered the contest as elite frontcourts, Michigan imposed its will in the paint and outscored Arizona 19-12 in second-chance points, leaving the Wildcats unable to locate any rhythm throughout the game.
Key Performers and Game Stats
The Wolverines’ victory was fueled by a balanced attack and dominant individual performances:
- Aday Mara: Led the team with a massive double-double, recording 26 points and nine rebounds.
- Elliott Cadeau: Orchestrated the offense with 13 points and 10 assists.
- Trey McKenney: Provided critical perimeter scoring with 16 points, shooting 4-of-6 from 3-point range.
Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd admitted that Michigan had the Wildcats “on our heels tonight,” noting that no other opponent had been able to disrupt Arizona’s rhythm so effectively all season.
Injury Concerns for Yaxel Lendeborg
Despite the dominant win, Michigan faces a significant concern heading into the championship game. All-American and Big Ten Player of the Year Yaxel Lendeborg suffered a left MCL sprain and an ankle injury during the first half.
Lendeborg attempted to play through the pain, returning in the second half to score 11 points, including three 3-pointers, in just 14 minutes of action. However, he was visibly struggling and moving gingerly before eventually leaving the game.
The Road to the Title
Michigan head coach Dusty May displayed immense confidence leading up to the game, spending time scouting potential opponents during the UConn-Illinois game just 90 minutes before tipoff. That confidence paid off as the Wolverines now seek the program’s first national championship since 1989.
The Wolverines will face UConn in the national championship game on Monday night.
Key Takeaways
- Final Score: Michigan 91, Arizona 73.
- Dominance: Michigan led by 16 points in the first half and dominated second-chance points (19-12).
- Standout: Aday Mara led all scorers with 26 points.
- Injury Alert: Yaxel Lendeborg is dealing with a left MCL sprain and ankle injury.
- Next Matchup: Michigan vs. UConn on Monday night.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the national championship game?
The championship game takes place on Monday night, April 6, 2026, featuring Michigan and UConn.
Who was the top scorer for Michigan?
Aday Mara led the Wolverines with 26 points and nine rebounds.
What happened to Yaxel Lendeborg?
Lendeborg suffered a left MCL sprain and an ankle injury during the first half of the game against Arizona.
When was the last time Michigan reached the national championship?
Michigan last appeared in the national championship game in 2018.
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