Michigan Aims to Fulfill Beilein's National Title Prediction

Former coach John Beilein believes the Wolverines will win it all this year.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 7:11pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a college basketball game, with sharp planes of blue, maize, and red hues creating a conceptual representation of the Wolverines' quest for a national championship.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes action on the court as Michigan seeks to end its national title drought.Ann Arbor Today

The Michigan basketball team is just two wins away from winning their first national championship in 37 years. Former head coach John Beilein, who led the Wolverines to the title game twice, has predicted that this year's squad will cut down the nets on Monday night. To make Beilein's prediction come true, Michigan will need to continue its hot 3-point shooting that has powered its NCAA Tournament run so far.

Why it matters

Michigan has been to the national semifinals six times since 1975 but has only won the title once, back in 1989. Beilein came close to ending the drought in 2013 and 2018, but fell short. This year's team has a chance to finally deliver the school's second national championship in nearly four decades.

The details

Michigan has shot the ball exceptionally well from 3-point range during its tournament run, making 43.5% of its attempts. This has allowed the Wolverines to become the first team since the 1989 squad to score at least 90 points in each of the four games leading up to the Final Four. To win the title, Michigan will need to continue its hot shooting, especially against defensive-minded opponents like Arizona and potentially Illinois or UConn in the championship game.

  • Michigan last won the national championship in 1989.
  • Beilein led Michigan to the title game in 2013 and 2018 but came up short.

The players

John Beilein

The former head coach of the Michigan basketball team, who led the Wolverines to the national championship game in 2013 and 2018.

Dusty May

The current head coach of the Michigan basketball team, who is looking to lead the Wolverines to their first national title since 1989.

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What they’re saying

“I think Michigan will catch its second championship”

— John Beilein, Former Michigan Head Coach

What’s next

Michigan will face Arizona in the national semifinal, with the winner advancing to the championship game against either Illinois or UConn.

The takeaway

Michigan's hot 3-point shooting has been the key to its NCAA Tournament success so far, and if the Wolverines can continue that trend, they have a chance to fulfill former coach John Beilein's prediction and win their first national title in 37 years.