Maize and Blue Blood: Michigan Ends the Big Ten’s National Title Drought

Michigan is back on top! In this live post-game reaction, host Steve Hartman breaks down the Wolverines' 69-63 victory over UConn to claim the 2026 National Championship. It was a gritty, defensive battle that saw Michigan overcome poor shooting with size, physicality, and clutch late-game execution.We dive into how Dusty May led Michigan to their first title since 1989 and secured the Big Ten’s first national championship since 2000. Steve analyzes the key moments and players that defined this historic night, including:Clutch Under Pressure: Freshman McKenney's "stones" in the final minutes, hitting a critical three-pointer and icing the game at the free-throw line.The MOP: Elliott Cadeau controlling the game to earn Most Outstanding Player honors.Interior Dominance: How Michigan's size, led by 7'3" Aday Mara, stifled UConn’s offense and forced them into tough shots.The Coaching Matchup: Comparing Dusty May’s calm, prepared sideline demeanor to Danny Hurley’s high-energy theatrics.A "Minnesota Flavor": Celebrating local champions Will Tschetter (Stewartville) and Gianna Kneepkens (Duluth Marshall).Legacy and Dynasty: Assessing UConn's impressive run and the legend of Braylon Mullins' tournament-defining shot against Duke.Finally, we look ahead to the immediate future of college basketball as the transfer portal opens officially tomorrow.Follow Splash City Basketball:Subscribe: YouTube, Spotify, Apple or wherever you get your podcasts.Connect: Facebook, Instagram, and Blue Sky.Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube. Follow Splash City Basketball Podcast on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky.