Michigan Basketball: Who are the UCLA Bruins?

Conclusion

The Michigan basketball squad finally caught a break with this matchup. Not only is UCLA overmatched on paper as you examine their respective seeds, but the Bruins do not have the size to match up with the inside-out game that U-M likes to play.

I expect them to double Hunter Dickinson often, and Dickinson will make a few spectacular skip passes to open shooters on the wings which will put the Bruins in an impossible situation.

Once a few of those outside shots fall, they will be forced to pick their poison and Dickinson should go to work on the smaller defenders.

I expect another big game from Brandon Johns as Juwan Howard looks to keep his confidence on the rise. He will be key on the defensive end, along with Franz Wagner, as he will be tasked with defending one of UCLA’s talented 6’6″ wings.

Another key to watch is how Michigan controls the pace. The Wolverines are much better suited to play fast than UCLA and I would expect them to push the ball up the court with a purpose, especially in the first half.

If Michigan basketball can wear out the Bruins early, their physicality will take over late to put them away for good.

My prediction is the Wolverines continue to win without star Isaiah Livers, and they take care of business against an inferior opponent.

Michigan 77, UCLA 64. The Wolverines will be on to the Final Four to face the winner of Gonzaga and USC.

Be on the lookout for another opponent preview provided the Wolverines advance!