(Men’s NCAA Tournament) The 2026 Michigan Wolverines had one of the most complete, diverse, and commanding teams in the NCAA Tournament. Coach Dusty May composed a starting lineup entirely of transfers and showed immense power as they became the first team since 1989 to score over 90 points in five straight games before man-handling the Huskies in the finals. The 69-63 victory over UConn was led by Michigan guard Most Outstanding Player Elliot Cadeau, as he dropped 19 points, leading his team to hold up the NABC National Championship Trophy. This Michigan team ultimately dominated the Midwest region, and even though Braylon Mullins hit a game-winning shot against Duke in the Elite Eight, the Wolverines ended the Huskies’ quest for a dynasty.
(Women’s NCAA Tournament) The UCLA Bruins solidified themselves in history by beating the powerhouse South Carolina Gamecocks 79-51. This was UCLA’s first tournament win ever as they finished with a remarkable 37-1 record. They displayed total dominance throughout the tournament, with all 5 starters reaching double figures to destroy the top-seeded Gamecocks. This experienced roster was led by the fearsome duo of Lauren Betts and Gabriel Jaquez, who cemented their place in NCAA history. This earned the university its 126th overall NCAA team title.
Question: What was your favorite part of the NCAA playoff tournament and why?
“My favorite part about this tournament is when the Huskies came back against Duke and Braylon Mullins hit a game-winner to send them to the Final Four.”-Brooklyn Chesnut
“My favorite part was watching Kentucky and Santa Clara go back-to-back with threes.”-Cole Harris
“My favorite part about the NCAA Tournament was the whole thing. It was so exciting to see all the teams duke it out for the chance to be stitched in history as one of the winners of March Madness.”-Katin Pesce
