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Final Four predictions: Who will advance to national championship game?
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- Final Four predictions: Who will advance to national championship game?
The road to the Final Four has finally reached Indianapolis . Have you had time to catch your breath?
Arizona , Illinois , Michigan and UConn are all that's left from the 68 teams who began the 2026 Men's NCAA Tournament.
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With half the Final Four, is this the year the Big Ten finally gets back on top? The conference hasn't won a men's basketball national championship since 2000 .
Final Four reseed: Power rankings of the teams left in March Madness
Michigan Wolverines guard Roddy Gayle Jr. (11) shakes hands with forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) against the Howard Bison during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines center Aday Mara (15) dunks the ball against Howard Bison guard Bryce Harris (34) during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines head coach Dusty May talks to forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) before a substitution against the Howard Bison during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Mark Konezny-Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) shoots the ball against Howard Bison guards Cam Gillus (2) and Alex Cotton (4) during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Mark Konezny-Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines guard Nimari Burnett (4) dunks the ball against the Howard Bison during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Mark Konezny-Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts after a dunk in the first half against the Saint Louis Billikens during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Mark Konezny-Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines bench reacts in the second half against the Saint Louis Billikens during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images)
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates with his teammates after defeating the Saint Louis Billikens in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at KeyBank Center on March 21, 2026 in Buffalo, New York.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)
Aday Mara #15 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates with fans after defeating the Saint Louis Billikens in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at KeyBank Center on March 21, 2026 in Buffalo, New York.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines dunks the ball against the Saint Louis Billikens in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at KeyBank Center on March 21, 2026 in Buffalo, New York.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)
Michigan Wolverines huddles during a Sweet Sixteen game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Alabama Crimson Tide at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts in the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide during a Sweet Sixteen game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(David Banks, David Banks-Imagn Images)
Michigan Director of Basketball Operations KT Harrell, left, and Director of Player Development Drew Williamson celebrate a play against Alabama during the first half of NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 round at United Center in Chicago on Friday, March 27, 2026.
(Junfu Han, Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide in a Sweet Sixteen game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates a basket against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
Elliot Cadeau #3 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates a basket against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
Trey McKenney #1 and Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates during the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
Head coach Dusty May of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates the 90-77 win against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Gregory Shamus, Getty Images)
Morez Johnson Jr. #21 and Roddy Gayle Jr. #11 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrate against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
Head coach Dusty May of the Michigan Wolverines reacts against the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 29, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 embraces Aday Mara #15 of the Michigan Wolverines on the bench against the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 29, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Gregory Shamus, Getty Images)
Yaxel Lendeborg #23, Aday Mara #15, and L.J. Cason #2 of the Michigan Wolverines react on the bench against the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 29, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts in the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers during an Elite Eight game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts in the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers during an Elite Eight game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts from the bench in the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers during an Elite Eight game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
Michigan Wolverines forward Morez Johnson Jr. (21) dunks the ball in the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers during an Elite Eight game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts against the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 29, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Gregory Shamus, Getty Images)
Elliot Cadeau #3, Yaxel Lendeborg #23, and Roddy Gayle Jr. #11 of the Michigan Wolverines react against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 29, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Gregory Shamus, Getty Images)
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Michigan Wolverines guard Roddy Gayle Jr. (11) shakes hands with forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) against the Howard Bison during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines guard Roddy Gayle Jr. (11) shakes hands with forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) against the Howard Bison during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines center Aday Mara (15) dunks the ball against Howard Bison guard Bryce Harris (34) during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines head coach Dusty May talks to forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) before a substitution against the Howard Bison during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Mark Konezny-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) shoots the ball against Howard Bison guards Cam Gillus (2) and Alex Cotton (4) during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Mark Konezny-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines guard Nimari Burnett (4) dunks the ball against the Howard Bison during the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Mark Konezny-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts after a dunk in the first half against the Saint Louis Billikens during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Mark Konezny-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines bench reacts in the second half against the Saint Louis Billikens during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center.
(Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates with his teammates after defeating the Saint Louis Billikens in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at KeyBank Center on March 21, 2026 in Buffalo, New York.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Aday Mara #15 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates with fans after defeating the Saint Louis Billikens in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at KeyBank Center on March 21, 2026 in Buffalo, New York.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines dunks the ball against the Saint Louis Billikens in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at KeyBank Center on March 21, 2026 in Buffalo, New York.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines huddles during a Sweet Sixteen game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament against the Alabama Crimson Tide at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts in the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide during a Sweet Sixteen game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(David Banks, David Banks-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Director of Basketball Operations KT Harrell, left, and Director of Player Development Drew Williamson celebrate a play against Alabama during the first half of NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 round at United Center in Chicago on Friday, March 27, 2026.
(Junfu Han, Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide in a Sweet Sixteen game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates a basket against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Elliot Cadeau #3 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates a basket against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Trey McKenney #1 and Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates during the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Head coach Dusty May of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates the 90-77 win against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Gregory Shamus, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Morez Johnson Jr. #21 and Roddy Gayle Jr. #11 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrate against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Head coach Dusty May of the Michigan Wolverines reacts against the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 29, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 embraces Aday Mara #15 of the Michigan Wolverines on the bench against the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 29, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Gregory Shamus, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Yaxel Lendeborg #23, Aday Mara #15, and L.J. Cason #2 of the Michigan Wolverines react on the bench against the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 29, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts in the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers during an Elite Eight game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts in the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers during an Elite Eight game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts from the bench in the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers during an Elite Eight game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Michigan Wolverines forward Morez Johnson Jr. (21) dunks the ball in the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers during an Elite Eight game of the Midwest Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at United Center.
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Yaxel Lendeborg #23 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts against the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 29, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Gregory Shamus, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Michigan basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Elliot Cadeau #3, Yaxel Lendeborg #23, and Roddy Gayle Jr. #11 of the Michigan Wolverines react against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first half in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at the United Center on March 29, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
(Gregory Shamus, Getty Images)
USA TODAY Sports will have comprehensive coverage this week leading into Saturday's national semifinals, but before we get to Indy, here's a look at our initial Final Four predictions:
Elite 8 winners, losers: UConn comeback, droughts end, Duke chokes again
Final Four predictions: Who will advance to 2026 national championship game?
Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) reacts in the first half against the LIU Sharks during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Denis Poroy-Imagn Images)
Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) and guard Brayden Burries (5) and forward Tobe Awaka (30) react with the bench in the second half against the LIU Sharks during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Denis Poroy, Denis Poroy-Imagn Images)
Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks against the Long Island University Sharks during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Kirby Lee, Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
Brayden Burries #5 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the first half against the Long Island University Sharks in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 20, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
Shadrak Lasu #22 of the Long Island University Sharks defends against Motiejus Krivas #13 of the Arizona Wildcats during the second half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 20, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
Koa Peat #10 of the Arizona Wildcats shoots the ball against Mason Porter-Brown #6 of the Long Island University Sharks during the second half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 20, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats rebounds the ball in front of teammates Koa Peat #10 and Tobe Awaka #30 during the first half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
Koa Peat #10 of the Arizona Wildcats speaks with teammates during the first half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the second half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) shoots against the Utah State Aggies in the second half during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) celebrates with guard Brayden Burries (5) after defeating the Utah State Aggies during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Denis Poroy, Denis Poroy-Imagn Images)
Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) celebrates after defeating the Utah State Aggies during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
Koa Peat #10 of the Arizona Wildcats dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 26, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
Motiejus Krivas #13 of the Arizona Wildcats dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 26, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
Head coach Tommy Lloyd of the Arizona Wildcats reacts after the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 26, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) reaches for a loose ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Arizona Wildcats guard Jaden Bradley (0) high-fives Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
(Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) celebrates after a play against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
(Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) reacts after a pay against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
(Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
Anthony Dell'orso #3 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts after shooting a three point basket against the Purdue Boilermakers during the second half of a game in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)
Jaden Bradley #0 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the second half of a game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the second half of a game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats looks on during the second half of a game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
Bryce James #6, Koa Peat #10 and Brayden Burries #5 of the Arizona Wildcats celebrate after defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)
Brayden Burries #5 and Motiejus Krivas #13 of the Arizona Wildcats celebrate after defeating the defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)
Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats cuts down the net after defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)
Jaden Bradley #0 of the Arizona Wildcats cuts down the net afterdefeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
Head coach Tommy Lloyd of the Arizona Wildcats cuts down the net after defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)
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Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) reacts in the first half against the LIU Sharks during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Denis Poroy-Imagn Images)
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Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) reacts in the first half against the LIU Sharks during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Denis Poroy-Imagn Images)
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Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) and guard Brayden Burries (5) and forward Tobe Awaka (30) react with the bench in the second half against the LIU Sharks during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Denis Poroy, Denis Poroy-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks against the Long Island University Sharks during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Kirby Lee, Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Brayden Burries #5 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the first half against the Long Island University Sharks in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 20, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Shadrak Lasu #22 of the Long Island University Sharks defends against Motiejus Krivas #13 of the Arizona Wildcats during the second half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 20, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Koa Peat #10 of the Arizona Wildcats shoots the ball against Mason Porter-Brown #6 of the Long Island University Sharks during the second half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 20, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
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Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats rebounds the ball in front of teammates Koa Peat #10 and Tobe Awaka #30 during the first half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Koa Peat #10 of the Arizona Wildcats speaks with teammates during the first half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the second half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.
(Sean M. Haffey, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) shoots against the Utah State Aggies in the second half during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) celebrates with guard Brayden Burries (5) after defeating the Utah State Aggies during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Denis Poroy, Denis Poroy-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) celebrates after defeating the Utah State Aggies during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
(Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
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Koa Peat #10 of the Arizona Wildcats dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 26, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
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Motiejus Krivas #13 of the Arizona Wildcats dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 26, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
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Head coach Tommy Lloyd of the Arizona Wildcats reacts after the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 26, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
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Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) reaches for a loose ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
(Eakin Howard, Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arizona Wildcats guard Jaden Bradley (0) high-fives Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
(Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) celebrates after a play against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
(Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
(Kyle Terada, Kyle Terada-Imagn Images)
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Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) reacts after a pay against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
(Eakin Howard-Imagn Images)
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Anthony Dell'orso #3 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts after shooting a three point basket against the Purdue Boilermakers during the second half of a game in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)
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Jaden Bradley #0 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the second half of a game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
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Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the second half of a game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
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Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats looks on during the second half of a game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
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Bryce James #6, Koa Peat #10 and Brayden Burries #5 of the Arizona Wildcats celebrate after defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Brayden Burries #5 and Motiejus Krivas #13 of the Arizona Wildcats celebrate after defeating the defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats cuts down the net after defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Jaden Bradley #0 of the Arizona Wildcats cuts down the net afterdefeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Ezra Shaw, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Arizona basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Head coach Tommy Lloyd of the Arizona Wildcats cuts down the net after defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)
Arizona vs Michigan prediction
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Blake Toppmeyer: Arizona.The Arizona-Michigan semifinal will be the de facto national championship game. They looked like the two best teams all tournament. Slight advantage to Arizona, a team without weakness. Everyone in the Wildcats' starting five averages in double figures scoring.
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John Brice : Arizona.I'll say it: this is the national championship game. Both teams are playing their best; it's easy to tab Michigan after its evisceration of Tennessee and the early line. Give me Tommy Lloyd's blend of vets and freshman phenoms.
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Jordan Mendoza: Arizona.In one of the best matchups in Final Four history, Arizona's depth comes up clutch with a big game in the paint to win a thriller.
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Paul Myerberg: Michigan.In what feels like a de facto title game, Michigan's frontcourt of Yaxel Lendeborg , Morez Johnson Jr. and Aday Mara gives it an edge in what should be a high-scoring semifinal
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Eddie Timanus: Arizona.This meeting is probably taking place a round too early, but don't get me started on everything the committee did wrong with this field. Since we are getting this game, let's just hope it lives up to its billing. I had the Wildcats winning the whole thing going in, so I'll stick to my guns.
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Matt Glenesk: Michigan.Billed as the real national championship game, this matchup should be awesome. Michigan has looked as good as anyone so far this tournament (along with Illinois ). Arizona had a blip in the first half vs. Purdue before opening a can on the Boilermakers. There's so much talent in this one, but I'm going with Wolverines, who haven't showed any vulnerabilities this tournament.
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John Leuzzi: Arizona.This one feels like a real toss-up, given how dominant both teams have looked in the first two weekends. Arizona wins in an all-time Final Four with Jaden Bradley and Koa Peat hitting big shots at the end.
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Brent Schrotenboer: Arizona.Best team from the best league wins: Arizona of the Big 12. Time for the first national champion west of Kansas since 1997.
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Craig Meyer: Michigan.These have been two of the three best teams in the country for much of the season and very little separates them. The Wolverines have just a little more experience in this situation, with an older roster and a coach who has been on this stage before, which will be enough for them to eke out a tight win. While it's tempting to call this the de-facto national title game, let's pump the brakes. Just ask Houston's 1983 team how that conventional wisdom worked out.
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Ehsan Kassim: Arizona.This one will be an instant classic and will come down to the wire. The Wildcats escape with a close victory over Dusty May's crew.
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In-depth: How Arizona players' halftime talk ended 25 years of March Madness heartbreak
Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) dunks the ball against the Penn Quakers in the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
(Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) celebrates after scoring Thursday, March 19, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first round game against the Penn Quakers at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) is defended by Penn Quakers guard AJ Levine (0) Thursday, March 19, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first round game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
Penn Quakers guard Michael Zanoni (7) and Penn Quakers guard AJ Levine (0) defend Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) Thursday, March 19, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first round game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina. Illinois Fighting Illini won 105-70.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
Kylan Boswell #4 of the Illinois Fighting Illini reacts with teammates after a basket and a foul during the second half against the Penn Quakers in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images)
Ben Humrichous #3 of the Illinois Fighting Illini reacts after making a 3-pointer during the first half against the Penn Quakers in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images)
Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini drives the ball against Cam Thrower #5 of the Penn Quakers during the first half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images)
The Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) reacts after a play during the second half against the VCU Rams during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
(Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini celebrates after a play during the second half against the VCU Rams during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
(Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) dunks the ball during the second half against the VCU Rams during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
(Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) celebrates after scoring Saturday, March 21, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game against the VCU Rams at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
Fans cheer Saturday, March 21, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game between the Illinois Fighting Illini and the VCU Rams at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
Illinois Fighting Illini guard Kylan Boswell (4) shakes hands with VCU Rams guard Nyk Lewis (1) March 21, 2026 after the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina)
Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) reacts after teammate Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) scored March 21, 2026 during the second half of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game with VCU Rams at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina)
Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) dunks against VCU Rams March 21, 2026 during the second half of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina)
Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) scores near VCU Rams forward Michael Belle (8) March 21, 2026 during the first half of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round East Region game at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina)
Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) dunks the ball past VCU Rams forward Lazar Djokovic (17) Saturday, March 21, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
Zvonimir Ivisic #44 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrates against the Houston Cougars during the first half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini fans cheer against the Houston Cougars during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Kenneth Richmond, Getty Images)
David Mirkovic #0 of the Illinois Fighting Illini looks for the rebound against the Houston Cougars in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) grabs a rebound against the Houston Cougars in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) shoots on Houston Cougars forward Kalifa Sakho (14) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) reacts against the Houston Cougars in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
Andrej Stojakovic #2 and Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Houston Cougars in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas
(Kenneth Richmond, Getty Images)
Kylan Boswell #4 and Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Houston Cougars in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) shoots against Iowa Hawkeyes guard Tavion Banks (6) in the first half during an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Troy Taormina, Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
(L-R) Keaton Wagler #23, David Mirkovic #0 and Kylan Boswell #4 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrates after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) and forward Ben Humrichous (3) celebrate after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini forward Jake Davis (15) reacts in the second half against the Iowa Hawkeyes during an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
(L-R) Keaton Wagler #23, Kylan Boswell #4 and David Mirkovic #0 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood celebrates with the trophy on the podium after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood celebrates after cutting down the net after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) cuts down the net after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) dunks the ball against the Penn Quakers in the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
(Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) dunks the ball against the Penn Quakers in the second half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
(Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) celebrates after scoring Thursday, March 19, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first round game against the Penn Quakers at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) is defended by Penn Quakers guard AJ Levine (0) Thursday, March 19, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first round game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
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Penn Quakers guard Michael Zanoni (7) and Penn Quakers guard AJ Levine (0) defend Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) Thursday, March 19, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first round game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina. Illinois Fighting Illini won 105-70.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
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Kylan Boswell #4 of the Illinois Fighting Illini reacts with teammates after a basket and a foul during the second half against the Penn Quakers in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images)
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Ben Humrichous #3 of the Illinois Fighting Illini reacts after making a 3-pointer during the first half against the Penn Quakers in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images)
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Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini drives the ball against Cam Thrower #5 of the Penn Quakers during the first half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images)
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The Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) reacts after a play during the second half against the VCU Rams during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
(Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini celebrates after a play during the second half against the VCU Rams during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
(Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) dunks the ball during the second half against the VCU Rams during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
(Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) celebrates after scoring Saturday, March 21, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game against the VCU Rams at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
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Fans cheer Saturday, March 21, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game between the Illinois Fighting Illini and the VCU Rams at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Kylan Boswell (4) shakes hands with VCU Rams guard Nyk Lewis (1) March 21, 2026 after the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina)
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) reacts after teammate Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) scored March 21, 2026 during the second half of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game with VCU Rams at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina)
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) dunks against VCU Rams March 21, 2026 during the second half of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina)
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) scores near VCU Rams forward Michael Belle (8) March 21, 2026 during the first half of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round East Region game at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina)
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) dunks the ball past VCU Rams forward Lazar Djokovic (17) Saturday, March 21, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
(Alex Martin/Greenville News)
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Zvonimir Ivisic #44 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrates against the Houston Cougars during the first half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini fans cheer against the Houston Cougars during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Kenneth Richmond, Getty Images)
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David Mirkovic #0 of the Illinois Fighting Illini looks for the rebound against the Houston Cougars in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) grabs a rebound against the Houston Cougars in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) shoots on Houston Cougars forward Kalifa Sakho (14) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) reacts against the Houston Cougars in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
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Andrej Stojakovic #2 and Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Houston Cougars in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas
(Kenneth Richmond, Getty Images)
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Kylan Boswell #4 and Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Houston Cougars in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) shoots against Iowa Hawkeyes guard Tavion Banks (6) in the first half during an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Troy Taormina, Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
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(L-R) Keaton Wagler #23, David Mirkovic #0 and Kylan Boswell #4 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Illinois basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrates after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
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See the best photos of Illinois basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) and forward Ben Humrichous (3) celebrate after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini forward Jake Davis (15) reacts in the second half against the Iowa Hawkeyes during an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
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(L-R) Keaton Wagler #23, Kylan Boswell #4 and David Mirkovic #0 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood celebrates with the trophy on the podium after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
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Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood celebrates after cutting down the net after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
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See the best photos of Illinois basketball's run to 2026 Final Four
Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) cuts down the net after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
Illinois vs UConn prediction
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Blake Toppmeyer: Illinois. Credit UConn for incredible comeback, but don't overlook Illinois. The Illini looked dominant coming out of the South, and they have enough offense to turn back a clutch UConn team.
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John Brice: UConn.How could anyone pick against Dan Hurley's squad at this point? Hurley's now 18-1 in his past three March Madness appearances. The Huskies will play for a third crown in four seasons.
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Paul Myerberg: UConn.The backcourt play and just enough beef up front to repeat November's 13-point win against the Illini in MSG. And after the miracle comeback against Duke, the Huskies feel like a team of destiny.
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Jordan Mendoza: UConn.The Huskies ride the high of the Elite Eight comeback and the 3-point shot returns to advanced to the national championship again.
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Eddie Timanus: UConn.I would have to be a complete idiot to pick against UConn at this phase of the Big Dance. We seen 'team of destiny' shots in the Elite Eight before, haven't we?
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Matt Glenesk: UConn.How can you pick against the Huskies after that comeback vs. Duke? Illinois is deep, big and talented. My old AOL screen name was ILLINI762, but I'm not picking against Dan Hurley in March.
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John Leuzzi: UConn.When these two met in late November at Madison Square Garden, UConn won by 13. While the margin of victory may not be like that this time around, the Huskies do get their second win of the season against the Illini. Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban continue to have big games, while Braylon Mullins delivers a big-time shot in front of the home crowd. UConn's defense is looking like a top 5 unit again.
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Brent Schrotenboer: UConn.That ending against Duke makes it look like destiny is calling again, at least for one more game.
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Craig Meyer: UConn.The Illini haven't just won on their way to their first Final Four in 21 years, but they've been dominant, winning each of their four tournament games by at least 10 points. They've only played one team better than a No. 9 seed, though, and the more battle-tested Huskies will be able to lean on Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban to pull out a close win. One thing to keep in mind with Illinois: no team has ever lost its first conference tournament game, like the Illini did against Wisconsin in the Big Ten tournament, and gone on to win the national championship.
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Ehsan Kassim: Illinois.UConn has required surviving two scares to reach this point. Illinois on the other hand has been dominant in the South Region. Give me the Illini.
More: Illinois was Brad Underwood's dream job. Now, he has it in the Final Four
When is 2026 Final Four? Final Four schedule
SATURDAY, APRIL 4, NATIONAL SEMIFINALS
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UConn vs. Illinois, 6:09 p.m. (TBS, TNT, truTV)
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Arizona vs. Michigan, 8:49 p.m. (TBS, TNT, truTV)
MONDAY, APRIL 6, NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
The Final Four of the Men's NCAA Tournament will take place across Saturday, April 4 and Monday, April 6. The national semifinal games will take place on April 4 with tip-off times of 6 p.m. ET and 8:30 p.m. ET. The national championship will tip off at 8:30 p.m. ET on April 6.
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Where is 2026 Final Four?
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Location:Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis)
The 2026 men's Final Four will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. It is the fourth time the venue will host the Final Four, and first time since 2021. Lucas Oil Stadium will also host the 2029 Final Four.
The city of Indianapolis also has a noted history of hosting the Men's NCAA Tournament national semifinals and championship games, hosting the Final Four a combined nine times between Market Square Arena (1980), RCA Dome (1991, 1997, 2000, 2006) and Lucas Oil Stadium (2010, 2015, 2021, 2026).
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Final Four predictions: Who will play for 2026 national championship?
