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Highlights and lowlights from Michigan’s thrilling 69-63 win over UConn on Monday, securing their first national championship since 1989:
Hero
Elliot Cadeau, initially seen as Michigan’s potential weak link, emerged as their standout performer in the national championship showdown. The junior from West Orange, New Jersey, dazzled with a game-high 19 points, 12 of which came in the second half, earning him the title of Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four. Cadeau also shone in the national semifinal against Illinois on Saturday, posting 13 points, 10 assists, five rebounds, and four steals.
Zero
Connecticut’s backcourt was expected to dominate, but they fell short, particularly in the point guard matchup. Silas Demary Jr. struggled with foul trouble throughout the night, contributing a mere two points and two assists in a largely ineffective 21 minutes on the court.
Unsung Hero
Yaxel Lendeborg battled through significant adversity, playing despite a sprained MCL and bone bruise in his left knee. The former junior college standout and anticipated NBA lottery pick showed resilience, scoring nine of his 13 points in the second half, even as he was hampered by injury.
Key Stat
The defeat snapped Connecticut’s impressive 18-game winning streak in NCAA Tournament play from the Sweet 16 onward, a run that dated back to 2009. Monday night’s loss also marked the Huskies’ first defeat in their seventh appearance in the national championship game.
Quote
“We talked about it early in the season, to hang a center banner — Michigan has got a proud tradition, there’s a lot of banners on the side. There’s one lonely banner up in the middle.” — Coach Dusty May after Michigan won its second national championship.