Michigan holds off UConn to win second NCAA hoops title
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- Michigan defeated UConn 69-63 to win the national championship, marking the program's first title since 1989 and ending UConn's long-standing dominance in the later rounds of the NCAA tournament.
- Elliot Cadeau was named Most Outstanding Player after scoring 19 points, playing a pivotal role in Michigan's victory and overall dominant season.
- Michigan's strength in the paint and free throw line offset their poor shooting from beyond the arc, as they struggled with 0-for-8 in the first half but capitalized on rebounds and fouls to build a lead.
- UConn faced significant foul trouble with key players picking up multiple fouls early, and their offense cooled down in the second half, missing 13 consecutive three-pointers at one point.
- Michigan's size and defensive pressure, particularly from Aday Mara, stifled UConn's offense late in the game, preventing them from mounting a sustained comeback.
