Michigan basketball is going back to the Final Four, and Trey McKenney is a big reason why.
The five-star freshman has exceeded all expectations this season for Michigan, which won its 35th game on Sunday, with a 95-62 win over Tennessee.
McKenney is shooting 38.5 percent from 3-point range this season for Michigan, while making 1.7 3-point field goals per game. Since the LJ Cason injury, his minutes have increased. His role has, too.
McKenney now handles the ball at times when Elliot Cadeau is off the court. He only played 19 minutes in the win over Tennessee, but scored 12 points, made all five of his free-throw attempts, and made another 3-pointer.
In four NCAA Tournament games, McKenney is scoring 11.75 points per game. He's also shooting 46.6 percent from beyond the arc.
McKenney's shooting ability has been impressive this season. But he also had to handle the ball more recently, and was able to score in the mid-range, as well as attack the bucket.
Trey McKenney said he will be back for Michigan basketball
Outside of advancing to the Final Four, maybe the best news of the weekend for Michigan is that McKenney is coming back.
LJ Cason is expected to be out for the season in 2026-27. So McKenney should have a starting role next to Elliot Cadeau, who is also coming back. Cason would have given Michigan three elite guards.
But even without Cason, it feels like McKenney is due for a huge leap next season. If it does happen, it will be at Michigan.
First, though, he's got a role to play as the Wolverines seek their first national championship since 1989. They wouldn't have reached the Final Four without him.