Michigan Wolverines Capture NCAA Basketball Championship

The Wolverines defeat UConn Huskies in thrilling final game held in Indianapolis.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:35pm

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The University of Michigan Wolverines men's basketball team won the 2026 NCAA Division I Basketball Championship, defeating the University of Connecticut Huskies in a close final game played at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Wolverines overcame a late deficit to secure the victory and claim their first national title since 1989.

Why it matters

Michigan's championship win marks a triumphant return to the top of college basketball for the storied program, which had struggled to reach the Final Four in recent years. The victory also continues the Wolverines' dominance in Indianapolis, where they have now won two national titles at Lucas Oil Stadium.

The details

In a back-and-forth affair, Michigan rallied from a 7-point deficit in the final minutes to defeat UConn 72-69. Senior guard Jamal Chatman scored 22 points, including the go-ahead 3-pointer with 12 seconds remaining, to lead the Wolverines to victory. Michigan's stifling defense held the high-powered Huskies offense in check for much of the game.

  • The NCAA Division I Basketball Championship final was played on April 5, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
  • Michigan won its first national title since 1989.

The players

University of Michigan Wolverines

The men's basketball team from the University of Michigan, a public research university located in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

University of Connecticut Huskies

The men's basketball team from the University of Connecticut, a public research university located in Storrs, Connecticut.

Jamal Chatman

A senior guard for the University of Michigan Wolverines men's basketball team, who scored the game-winning shot in the final seconds of the championship game.

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What they’re saying

“This team has been through so much, and to see them finally reach the mountaintop is incredibly gratifying. I'm so proud of the way they fought and never gave up.”

— Juwan Howard, Head Coach, University of Michigan Wolverines

“It's a tough way to end the season, but I couldn't be prouder of the effort our guys put forth. Michigan made the plays when it mattered most, and they deserve all the credit.”

— Dan Hurley, Head Coach, University of Connecticut Huskies

What’s next

The Wolverines will return to Ann Arbor to celebrate their championship victory with a parade and rally on April 12th.

The takeaway

Michigan's triumph in the NCAA Basketball Championship showcases the program's resilience and ability to overcome adversity, cementing its status as one of the elite teams in college basketball and setting the stage for a potential dynasty in the years to come.