Michigan Steamrolls Tennessee, Reaches Final Four

Wolverines dominate both ends of the floor to earn third Final Four berth since 2013

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:39pm

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Top-seeded Michigan routed sixth-seeded Tennessee 95-62 on Sunday, March 29, to reach the Final Four for the third time since 2013. The Wolverines have scored 90 or more points and shot 50% or better in each of their NCAA tournament games, with Yaxel Lendeborg leading the way with 27 points in the blowout win over the Volunteers.

Why it matters

Michigan's dominant performance over Tennessee, one of the country's top offensive and defensive teams, sends a clear message that the Wolverines are the team to beat in this year's NCAA Tournament. Their ability to overwhelm opponents on both ends of the floor makes them a formidable Final Four contender as they seek the school's first national title since 1989.

The details

Michigan used a 23-2 run in the first half to take control of the game and cruise to the 33-point victory. Lendeborg was the catalyst, scoring 10 points during that decisive stretch, and he finished with his third 23-plus point game of the tournament. The Wolverines had three other players score in double figures, and three more just shy of it, showcasing their balanced and potent offensive attack.

  • The game was played on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • Michigan will face fellow No. 1 seed Arizona in the Final Four in Indianapolis on Friday, April 3, 2026.

The players

Yaxel Lendeborg

Michigan's star player who is making a case for National Player of the Year after another dominant NCAA Tournament performance, scoring 27 points in the win over Tennessee.

Dusty May

Michigan's head coach who has led the Wolverines to their third Final Four appearance since 2013, showcasing his team's ability to overwhelm opponents on both ends of the floor.

Roddy Gayle Jr.

One of Michigan's key contributors who, along with Lendeborg, brings a fun, goofy personality to the Wolverines' dominant play on the court.

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What they’re saying

“They're the best team in the country, and they'll steamroll anyone who is in their way.”

— Nancy Armour, USA TODAY Sports columnist

What’s next

Michigan will face fellow No. 1 seed Arizona in the Final Four in Indianapolis on Friday, April 3, 2026, with a chance to advance to the national championship game.

The takeaway

Michigan's dominant performance over Tennessee, one of the country's top teams, solidifies their status as the team to beat in this year's NCAA Tournament. Their ability to overwhelm opponents on both ends of the floor makes them a formidable Final Four contender as they seek the school's first national title since 1989.