The NCAA Tournament is a whirlwind, and in just over a day, the Michigan Wolverines will clash with the Tennessee Volunteers for a coveted spot in the Final Four.
Tennessee is no stranger to this stage, marking their third consecutive trip to the Elite 8. However, they've faced heartbreak, losing to the No. 1 seed in their region in the past two seasons. Meanwhile, Michigan returns to the Elite 8 for the first time since 2021, when they fell short against UCLA.
The Volunteers have been propelled by the stellar play of point guard Ja'Kobi Gillespie, who’s been on fire, averaging 22 points per game and sinking 11 three-pointers at a 40% clip. Tennessee also excels in offensive rebounding and boasts a formidable defense, ranking 11th in KenPom's adjusted defensive ratings-posing a significant challenge to Michigan.
Despite being the sixth seed, Tennessee faces an uphill battle according to Vegas oddsmakers, with Michigan opening as a 7.5-point favorite. The over/under is set at 146.5, hinting at a potentially lower-scoring affair. Michigan has been an offensive juggernaut, scoring 90-plus points in each of their tournament games so far, but Tennessee’s defense is a different beast.
The Volunteers differ greatly from Alabama, ranking low in three-point attempts and percentage, but they dominate with size and limit opponents' defensive rebounds better than anyone in college basketball.
For Michigan, Aday Mara will need to step up, as will Morez Johnson, who’ll look to bounce back after some missed opportunities. Yaxel Lendeborg has been exceptional, and fans are buzzing about the performances of Trey McKenney, Roddy Gayle, and Elliot Cadeau.
Michigan is eyeing a return to the Final Four, and this matchup promises to be a thrilling contest.