Michigan opened as a 7.5-point favorite over UConn on theScore Bet in Monday's national title game. The projected line was 5.5, but Michigan's dominance over Arizona in the semifinal game bumped the spread up.
Arizona vs. Michigan was promoted as one of the best Final Four matchups ever - and for good reason. The Wolverines and Wildcats are two of the best teams ever, according to KenPom's metrics.
But Michigan's 91-73 smackdown proved how lethal this group is. Its 18-point win is tied for the largest in a tournament game between No. 1 seeds since 1979, per ESPN. Michigan has won all five of its tournament games by at least 13 points. The Wolverines could win their first national championship since 1989 and become the first Big Ten team to win since 2000.
👉 Will Michigan or UConn win the title? Bet it with theScore Bet
Michigan's victory didn't come without hiccups. Big Ten Player of the Year Yaxel Lendeborg suffered a left MCL sprain and ankle injury in the first half. He returned in the latter half but was clearly hobbled. He declared he won't miss the title game, but his impact could be limited. With a hampered Lendeborg only playing 14 minutes, Aday Mara had his best game of the season, totaling 26 points and nine rebounds.
Meanwhile, UConn is also chasing history. It could become the third program ever - and first since 1975 - to win three titles in four years. The Huskies limited the nation's best offense in Illinois to 62 points in the semifinal. While UConn doesn't have the talent or depth that Michigan has, Hurley, who hasn't lost a tournament game with UConn in the Sweet 16 or later rounds, will surely develop a game plan to create a compelling final.
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