Michigan, Arizona Set for Final Four Showdown

Wildcats look to punch ticket to national title game for first time since 2001

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:00pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a college basketball game in progress, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color in shades of blue, maize, red, and navy blue.The highly anticipated Final Four matchup between Michigan and Arizona promises to be a tightly contested battle between two of the top teams in college basketball.Indianapolis Today

The Michigan Wolverines and Arizona Wildcats, two of the highest-rated teams in KenPom history, will face off in the Final Four on Saturday night. Our predictions expect the Wildcats to come out on top and advance to the national championship game for the first time since 2001.

Why it matters

This matchup features two college basketball juggernauts, with both teams boasting terrific big men and elite interior defense. However, the Wildcats' superior backcourt and ability to control the offensive glass could give them the edge in this razor-close contest.

The details

Both teams love to attack the paint, but they also defend at an elite level inside. This will likely come down to perimeter play, where the Wildcats have the advantage with Jaden Bradley and Brayden Burries. Arizona also takes better care of the ball and crashes the offensive boards more effectively than Michigan, which could provide the Wildcats with extra scoring chances.

  • The Michigan Wolverines and Arizona Wildcats will face off on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 8:49 p.m. ET.

The players

Jaden Bradley

A guard for the Arizona Wildcats who is part of the team's strong backcourt.

Brayden Burries

A guard for the Arizona Wildcats who has been the team's go-to scorer in big games.

Tobe Awaka

A senior forward for the Arizona Wildcats who dominates the offensive glass and will be crucial in matching up against Michigan's trio of bigs.

Aday Mara

A key player for the Michigan Wolverines who protects the rim and will be tasked with slowing down Arizona's offense.

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What they’re saying

“There isn't much separating college basketball juggernauts Michigan and Arizona, but there are a couple of areas where the Wildcats have the edge in the Final Four.”

— Ponnaiya

What’s next

The winner of this game will advance to the national championship game.

The takeaway

This matchup between two of the highest-rated teams in KenPom history is expected to be a close and hard-fought battle. While Michigan has the edge in the frontcourt, Arizona's superior backcourt and ability to control the offensive glass could give the Wildcats the advantage and propel them to their first national title game appearance since 2001.