Despite some major things not going their way, the Michigan Wolverines weren't going to be denied against Arizona on Saturday night in the Final Four.
The "Game of the Year" turned into a blowout, even with Yaxel Lendeborg hobbled for most of it. Michigan basketball overpowered Arizona, inside and out in a 91-73 win that sends the Wolverines back to the National Championship Game for the first time since 2018.
Michigan needs one more win to bring home its first national title since 1989.
Michigan destroys Arizona, but the greatest challenge still lies ahead
Aday Mara was incredible. When Yaxel went out, he took on the mantle of being the best player on the floor. He scored 26 points, grabbed nine boards, dished out three assists, and blocked two shots.
Elliot Cadeau was incredible, too. He only made 5 of 17 shots, but he hit three 3-pointers, two in the second half, on his way to 13 points, 10 assists, and five boards. He also had four steals (six turnovers), but was impactful on defense. Yet, he controlled the game, dominating Arizona's guards.
Even Yaxel, on one leg essentially, went 3-for-3 from beyond the arc, making two early in the second half that put the win on ice. At least it felt like that. Trey McKenney and Cadeau then sealed the door, along with a bunch of plays from Mara.
It was the most dominant performance in college basketball this season. Yet, the Wolverines still need one more win. They have lost four consecutive in the National Championship Game, while UConn has won its last two and is seeking three titles in four years.
After the win, Dusty May said Michigan would "have its hands full." So will the Huskies. It will be an epic battle, and conquering Dan Hurley's UConn squad will be Michigan's greatest challenge yet.
After all, if you want to be the champ, you have to beat the champ, and in college basketball, that's UConn.