Is this the year? Do we say that every year or does it just seem like we do? But the question still beckons, do the Michigan Wolverines have what it takes to win a national championship?
Currently sitting at No. 3 in the AP Top 25 poll, the Wolverines find themselves, once again, as one of the elite teams in college basketball. Their only loss came at the hands of the Wisconsin Badgers. A game that Michigan, played unlike itself. The Badgers seemed like the grittier and more determined team. Whether that loss is an anomaly or showed a real weakness in the Wolverines is to be determined. But one thing is for certain: Michigan basketball finds itself with lofty expectations in the second season under Dusty May.
Can Michigan basketball finish the season with a win?
Last year, the Wolverines lost four of their last six games to end the season. While it had been quite a turnaround under Dusty May, from the disastrous season under Juwan Howard, where they went 8-24, the Wolverines did not seem primed to do much in the tournament. Questions lingered about their legitimacy in the Big Ten and whether or not they could make a run in March Madness. But...all those questions dissipated when they won the Big Ten tournament. A considerably high achievement after what had been some disappointing chapters for Wolverines basketball. Unfortunately, they would lose in the Sweet Sixteen to Auburn.
While the outcome may not have been what the Michigan Wolverines wanted, 2025-2026 looked to be a season the Wolverines could continue to build on the previous one's success.
Dusty May still seems like the right guy for the job. And while the Big Ten is never an easy place to come out on top, Michigan can do it again.
So is this the year that the Wolverines are a real championship contender? Can they cut down the nets at the end of the season?
Here's to hoping they are up for the challenge.