Category: NBA

North Carolina appears to have found its next head coach and, surprise, it is someone no one was really talking about. Despite connections to the university due to his daughter playing volleyball at Carolina, former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone was not a name you heard a lot of in relation to the Tar Heels’ head coaching job.

However, despite that, sources have told people at ESPN that he will be the next coach at UNC. There will be plenty of time to deep dive into this later, but just a quick history of a current NBA announcer who has not coached any basketball in over a year after he was surprisingly fired from the Nuggets three games before the NBA season ended. Malone does have college experience having served as a college assistant at Oakland, Providence, and Manhattan, though all of that was 25 years ago. Malone is most famous for being an NBA coach who led the Denver Nuggets to their first and only championship in 2023 and being the head coach of the emergence of Nikola Jokic as he became one of the best (if not best) players in the NBA.

Malone will be expected to quickly adjust to the ever-changing world of college sports while navigating NIL deals, the transfer portal that opens tomorrow, and recruiting for the first time. The task will be a tall one and one should have a multitude of questions of whether or not he can do this at a high level, especially after what fans just experienced with a football coach attempting the same thing this past season.

What do you think of this? Let us know in the comments below.

North Carolina has its next basketball coach, as it intends to hire former Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone for its vacancy, three people close to the situation confirmed to USA TODAY Sports on Monday, April 6.

Malone was fired by the Nuggets before the playoffs in 2025, two years after winning the NBA Finals with the organization. The 54-year-old coach last coached in college in 2001 as an assistant at Manhattan, after stints at Oakland (1994-95) and Providence (1995-98).

Malone's daughter, Bridget Malone, plays volleyball at North Carolina. He replaces Hubert Davis, who was fired after the Tar Heels' first-round loss to No. 11 seed VCU in the NCAA Tournament.

Top 25 available players: College basketball transfer portal rankings

It's an outside-the-box hire for North Carolina, opting for a coach who has never been a college head coach before. The timing of the hire also makes sense, with the transfer portal officially opening April 7.

In 10 seasons with the Nuggets, Malone went 471-327 (.590), reaching the playoffs six times. He has 510 career NBA wins, also spending two seasons as the Sacramento Kings' head coach before he was fired.

The Tar Heels were tied to multiple Final Four coaches like Arizona's Tommy Lloyd and Michigan's Dusty May, although both turned down the job publicly. Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan was also tied to the role, although the former two-time national champion with Florida was adamant about sticking with the Bulls through the remainder of the regular season, which would've likely posed a threat to North Carolina's recruiting timeline for next season, especially with the portal window only lasting 15 days this offseason.

Malone's hire also signals a change in North Carolina's hiring philosophy. He's the school's first hire since Frank McGuire in 1952 to not have had prior connections to the school as either a player or assistant coach, although his daughter is a student at the school. Davis was a longtime assistant and player, Roy Williams graduated from North Carolina, Matt Doherty played at North Carolina, Bill Guthridge was an assistant before he was hired and so was Dean Smith, one of the most legendary coaches in college basketball history.

Malone cut his teeth as an NBA assistant, working for the New York Knicks (2001-05), Cleveland Cavaliers (2005-10), New Orleans Hornets (2010-11) and Golden State Warriors (2011-13) before landing his first head-coaching gig with the Kings. He was also an NBA All-Star Game head coach in 2019 and 2023.

The Queens, New York native spent most of his career with Nikola Jokic, a 3-time MVP winner with the Nuggets and one of the best players in the world. Malone was most recently an NBA analyst with ESPN.

Michael Malone coaching record, history

Head coaching record

• 2013-14 Sacramento: 28-54
• 2014-15 Sacramento: 11-13
• 2015-16 Denver: 33-49
• 2016-17 Denver: 40-42
• 2017-18 Denver: 46-36
• 2018-19 Denver: 54-28, conference semifinals
• 2019-20 Denver: 46-27, conference finals
• 2020-21 Denver: 47-25, conference semifinals
• 2021-22 Denver: 48-34, first round
• 2022-23 Denver: 53-29, NBA champions
• 2023-24 Denver: 57-25, conference semifinals
• 2024-25 Denver: 47-32

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mike Malone hired as next North Carolina basketball coach

Welcome to Week in Review: a Monday feature that looks back at the week that was for the San Antonio Spurs, takes a look at the week ahead, and more. Enjoy!

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Week 23: The Spurs swept an easy three-game road trip against the slumping Heat and tanking Grizzlies and Bucks, becoming the first team in NBA history to win four straight road games by 25 or more points (including their win in Sacramento the week before). They also secured their first Southwest Division title since 2017 (not that it has any meaning these days) and their third 8-game winning streak of the season.

Week 24: 3-1 (59-19, 2nd in West)

129-114 win vs. Chicago Bulls

In their only home game in two weeks, it wasn’t the Spurs’ best effort against a depleted Bulls team eliminated from the play-in, but after a back-and-forth first half, they rode a 41-point game from Victor Wembaynama and a strong third quarter to victory despite an admirable effort from former Spur Tre Jones in his return to the Frost Bank Center.

127-113 win at Golden State Warriors

In a similar situation as the Bulls game, the Spurs returned to the the road to face a depleted Warriors team that featured Draymond Green — who battled foul trouble all night — plus a bunch of “who he play for” candidates (although, unlike the Bulls, they still had something to play for). The Spurs again were a bit complacent and didn’t have their finest outing, but they stayed ahead and never let the Warriors get within single-digits in the second half while riding Wemby’s second straight 41-point outing.

118-99 win at Los Angeles Clippers

Who needs 41 points from Wemby? Despite him sitting on the second night of a back-to-back and old nemesis Kawhi Leonard being his usual, productive self for the Clippers, they were no match for the Spurs’ dynamic guard trio of De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper, who combined for 62 points and 15 assists. After owning the first half, the Spurs overcame a bit of a scare from the Clippers in the third quarter to once again dominate the fourth and sweep the season series against a potential first round opponent. It was also their first sweep of Kawhi since his ugly departure.

124-136 OT loss at Denver Nuggets

Well, maybe the Spurs could have used 41 from Wemby in this game. In what could be an amazing second round match-up, he continued his run of MVP-level play with 34 points, 18 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 blocks, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Nikola Jokic’s 40-8-13-3 game. The Spurs led most of the way despite it not being their finest showing, but too many mistakes in the final minute finally caught up with them, and they couldn’t get the looks they wanted in OT to secure the victory.

Power Rankings

John Schuhmann, NBA.com — 2 (last week: 2)

OffRtg: 118.6 (5) DefRtg: 110.2 (3) NetRtg: +8.4 (2) Pace: 100.8 (12)

From Feb. 1 to April 1, the Spurs went 26-1 with Victor Wembanyama in uniform, outscoring their opponents by an amazing 24.9 points per 100 possessions in his 800 minutes on the floor. But that wasn’t good enough to catch the Thunder, and the Spurs’ overtime loss to the Nuggets on Saturday afternoon has them three games back of Oklahoma City with four games to play.

One takeaway

The loss on Saturday was the first time this season (in three meetings) that Wembanyama had played against Denver, and it was the Spurs’ worst defensive game (136 points allowed on 107 possessions) since December. The Nuggets shot just 21-for-41 (51%) in the paint, but were 9-for-14 from mid-range and 9-for-19 on corner 3-pointers.

The Spurs lead the league in the percentage of their opponents’ shots (13%) that have come from mid-range and have the seventh highest opponent corner rate (percentage of their opponents’ 3-point attempts that come from the corners), and Denver is uniquely qualified to keep Wembanyama occupied and have five shooters on the floor. The Nuggets’ nine players who’ve shot 38% or better on at least 100 3-point attempts are three more than any other team has.

What to watch for this week

While the Spurs aren’t quite locked into the 2 seed in the West (and the second best record overall), they’re close. But to qualify for awards consideration, Wembanyama needs to play in three more games, logging at least 20 minutes in two of the three and at least 15 minutes in the third. The Spurs are the only team without any more road games and while their season finale against Denver might not mean anything to them, there’s a chance it will determine whether the Nuggets pass the shorthanded Lakers in the standings and become a potential opponent in the second round.

Law Murray, The Athletic — 2 (last week: 1)

2026 playoff prediction from Week 1: 10th in West (earn eighth in Play-In Tournament), lose West quarterfinals vs. Thunder

I thought the Spurs would sneak into the playoffs; they’re close to being the top seed in the entire conference. And while alien overlord Victor Wembanyama has been a devastating force on both ends, the Spurs needed more players to emerge to be a great team this season. Mitch Johnson did a wonderful job of getting all of his guards (All-Star De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle and reserve rookie Dylan Harper) to work in concert with one another as well. This season, San Antonio went 11-5 with Wembanyama out of the lineup and has only lost the lineups with Wembanyama off the floor by 17 points all season. Last year, the Spurs were 13-23 with Wembanyama out while getting outscored by 328 points with Wembanyama off the floor.

Brett Siegel, Clutch Points — 2 (last week: 1)

The San Antonio Spurs and Victor Wembanyama saw their 11-game win streak snapped in overtime against the Denver Nuggets on Saturday, a game that essentially ends their pursuit of the 1-seed in the West. This loss also impacts Wembanyama’s valiant MVP chase against Gilgeous-Alexander, despite his 34-18-7-5 performance.

This has been an incredible year for the Spurs, and they will enter the playoffs with a lot of confidence as a young team. It will be interesting to see how they shift their focus and respond to the pressure that comes with the postseason, especially after losing this playoff-like game to Denver on Saturday.

One final regular-season battle with Nikola Jokic and his squad will come on the final day of the regular season in San Antonio, a game both teams will desperately want to win entering the postseason.

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Coming up: Mon. 4/6 vs. Philadelphia 76ers (43-35); Wed. 4/8 vs. Portland Trail Blazers (4-38); Fri. 4/10 Dallas Mavericks (25-53); Sun. 4/12 vs. Denver Nuggets

Prediction: 3-1 — For a team that is one loss or Thunder win away from locked in place, there is still a surprising amount to play for, and all against teams with something to play for as well. Finishing the regular season entirely at home, they face 76ers, Blazers and Nuggets teams that are all battling for seeding in their conferences, and even though the Mavs are eliminated, Cooper Flagg has been on a historical tear over last week, possibly ripping the the Rookie of the Year award from his former college teammate Kon Knueppel’s hands, so they can’t be slept on.

On the Spurs side, it’s nearly impossible to predict what they’ll do. As Schuhmann points out, Wemby needs to play in at least three games while reaching 20 min in two of them and 15 in one to remain award eligible (and you can bet he will after missing the 65-game limit last year). But the Spurs can also play a but of a role in who they face in the playoffs, depending on how the week goes. Portland needs one more win than the Clippers to snag the 8th seed (assuming they stay in 2nd, the Spurs would face the winner of 7th vs. 8th), and of course, there’s the chaotic 3-5 race in the West that got even wilder thanks injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reeves. Depending on where things stand for their regular season finale against Denver, the Spurs might be strategic with how they approach that game since you can bet they’d rather see the Lakers or Rockets in the second round over the Nuggets.

This is all a long-winded way of me saying that if I had to guess, they’ll continue to strategically rest players while still putting out nearly a full compliment every night, especially considering they’ll get a whole week off before the playoffs, so they don’t want to create to wide of a gap between games played at full strength. Still, that uncertainty and the determination opponents will have is what has me predicting 3-1 (and 4-0 or 2-2 wouldn’t surprise me).

Following a weekend of catastrophic injuries that saw their star backcourt ruled out for at least the regular season, the Lakers still had a game to play on Sunday in Dallas.

The ripple effects of this will reverberate not only through the summer but also force an already thin roster to completely restructure its style on both ends.

In their first game since the announcements, the purple and gold fell to the tanking Mavericks. LeBron James led with 30 points, nine rebounds and 15 assists and Luke Kennard notched his first career triple-double, but it wasn’t enough to overcome rookie Cooper Flagg’s 45 points.

A bright spot was Rui Hachimura’s ever-consistent, yet never flashy, game. All season, he has adjusted his role based on who’s available each night. On Sunday, in 39 minutes, he finished with 21 points on 9-13 shooting overall and 3-5 from three-point range with seven rebounds while finishing with a plus-minus of +5.

It continues a year of highly efficient shooting that led to him being labeled a “laser” by head coach J.J. Redick. He now slots up as one of the most important offensive pieces this year with major questions looming on a summer contract.

LA will rely heavily on pace-and-space basketball without Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. They will be forced to lean on transition offense, with LeBron in control to find shooters. It’s a style suited for Hachimura as he has developed into one of the best spot-up shooters in basketball, hitting 43% of his catch-and-shoot 3-pointers.

Watch him sprint to the corner in the clip below for a semi transition three, after a swing pass by Kennard.

Where Hachimura brings his most versatility to the team is in the mid-range, where he’s been effectively the most efficient in the league. He hits a blistering 57% on the lost art long two, first among all players who’ve taken at least 100 attempts per the NBA’s tracking data.

It’s a necessary counter, especially in high leverage or postseason basketball, when teams scout and run the best shooters off the 3-point line. Watch below as he collects the swing pass and flows it into a automatic rhythm one-dribble pull-up jumper below.

“I would say the reason I’m here is the midrange,” Hachimura said in a recent postgame. “I’ve been doing it since high school. That was my thing. The first time I started playing basketball, those guys, the Carmelos, were my role models. I think I watched them a lot, that’s how I shaped my game.

“Those are never going to go away. I’ll always have that in my bag.”

LA will have to find creative ways to get Hachimura more shots, as he’s not one you can just hand the ball to at the top of the key. One option is to have him come off pin-down screens like below, flowing into his efficient mid-range shot.

The Lakers and Hachimura did not reach a deal on a contract extension last fall. How the sudden injuries to the backcourt impact all the pending free agents remains to be seen.

While not a perfect player by any means, Hachimura has made a case with his play that, at the right number, a return would make sense for both parties, no matter how this season ends…if it hasn’t already.

You can follow Raj on X at @RajChipalu

For most college basketball teams in the current landscape, future championships are won in April and May when rosters are being built.

Michigan and UConn feature numerous transfers on their respective national championship-contending teams. The Wolverines start five transfers, whereas the Huskies' best player this season, center Tarris Reed Jr., is also transfer.

The NCAA approved a shortened transfer portal window for the 2026 season, with players allowed to officially enter from April 7-21 on the men's side. The window starts a day after the national championship game on Monday, April 6.

REQUIRED READING: How Dusty May built Michigan basketball into this behemoth. He aced transfer portal

The old transfer portal window lasted 30 days and started after the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament, putting teams that advanced in March Madness at a disadvantage. As soon as the buzzer sounds at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis for the national championship, the race is on for the top available players.

Here's a look at USA TODAY's top players available in the 2026 transfer portal window:

Men's college basketball transfer portal players rankings

These rankings will be updated as players enter the transfer portal.

Here's a look at our top 25 available players of the college basketball transfer portal in 2026:

1. Flory Bidunga, Kansas
2. Juke Harris, Wake Forest
3. John Blackwell, Wisconsin
4. Paulius Murauskas, St. Mary’s
5. Neoklis Avdalas, Virginia Tech
6. Miles Byrd, San Diego State
7. Isaiah Johnson, Colorado
8. Aiden Sherrell, Alabama
9. Somto Cyril, Georgia
10. Acaden Lewis, Villanova
11. Stefan Vaaks, Providence
12. Oswin Erhunmwunse, Providence
13. Bryson Tiller, Kansas
14. Dedan Thomas Jr., LSU
15. Mouhamed Sylla, Georgia Tech
16. Kwame Evans Jr., Oregon
17. Markus Burton, Notre Dame
18. Alex Wilkins, Furman
19. Jackson Shelstad, Oregon
20. Jalen Haralson, Notre Dame
21. Terrence Brown, Utah
22. Najai Hines, Seton Hall
23. Jeremiah Wilkinson, Georgia
24. Finley Bizjack, Butler
25. Terrence Hill Jr., VCU

College basketball transfer portal news, live updates

Aiden Sherrell plans to enter transfer portal

Alabama sophomore forward Aiden Sherrell is planning to enter the transfer portal, according to multiple reports. The 6-foot-11 big man averaged 11.1 points with 6.2 rebounds per game as a first-year starter at Alabama, along with 2.2 blocks per game.

A former five-star recruit, Sherrell was the No. 23 player and No. 5 center of the 2024 class, according to 247Sports' Composite. Sherrell can also shoot from outside, making 33.8% of his 2.4 3-point attempts per game.

Bryson Tiller to enter transfer portal

Kansas redshirt freshman forward Bryson Tiller is entering the transfer portal, according to multiple reports April 6.

Tiller averaged 7.9 points with 6.1 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game this season, starting 31 of 35 games for the Jayhawks. The former blue-chip recruit has three seasons of eligibility remaining and will be highly sought-after, thanks to his starting experience and 6-foot-11, 240-pound frame.

John Blackwell to enter transfer portal

Wisconsin guard John Blackwell, the No. 3-ranked player available by USA TODAY, announced April 6 that he's entering the transfer portal while going through the NBA draft process.

The All-Big Ten third-team selection this season averaged 19.1 points with 5.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game and is a two-year starter for the Badgers. He scored 22 points with 10 rebounds in Wisconsin's upset loss against High Point in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

It's a brutal loss for Wisconsin, which is also losing leading scorer Nick Boyd. Blackwell will be among the most sought-after players available with two seasons of high-level scoring production in the Big Ten.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College basketball transfer portal player rankings, news: Best available

Time is linear: At least, in terms of human perception.

Little else is.

An NBA career is certainly not always linear. There’s a tendency to falsely assume it will be. A rookie is bad on league-wide standards, and we accept it. They improve incrementally until year three, when they’re officially good, and then continue to improve incrementally until they peak, and start to decline. That’s how an NBA career goes, right?

On rare occasion, sure. Usually, a player’s career is more chaotic. They decline significantly in their third year. Fans think they’re done – until year six, when they have a career-best season. That’s the new baseline, they incrementally improve for two more seasons, fall off – etc, etc.

As always, theory is clean, and reality is messy. Unfortunately, the 2025-26 season has been a bit of a mess for the Houston Rockets’ Tari Eason.

Rockets’ Tari Eason has had a strange year

Much of 2025-26 was looking like a coming-out party for Eason. Before the All-Star break, Eason was averaging 12.2 points per game while hitting 46.0% of his 4.8 threes per game.

Sure, he seemed to be regressing in other areas. Eason’s 7.1 Offensive Rebounding % during that stretch had ticked down from 2024-25’s 8.1 mark. His 25.5% steal percentage was a major drop off from his 39.1% in 2024-25. It seemed safe to assume that those numbers would normalize.

If only it were possible for assumptions to be safe.

Instead, it was his shooting that normalized. Perhaps fans should have seen that coming as well. Shooting variance disrupts linearity like a 7/8 time signature. Eason has struggled to get a rock into an ocean since the break.

Now, he’s shooting 36.9% from deep on the season. That’s barely a career high, while he’s still posting career lows in the two areas (offensive rebounding and steals) that once made him special. The fact that this all comes after Eason allegedly turned down a deal worth $100 million over four seasons this summer.

What should the team do with him now?

Rockets should still prioritize Eason

Having declined that extension, Eason will hit Restricted Free Agency this summer.

Every foray into RFA does not look the same. The league’s cap landscape has to be surveyed. Heading into this summer, the only space-heavy team that looks like a real threat to wrestle Eason from the Rockets would be the Los Angeles Lakers.

All the Rockets have to do is identify their breaking point and hold the line. The $25 million per season they once earmarked for Eason is likely off the table. Would they do $20 million? Surely, they’d do $15 million?

Here’s the thing: Eason is sure to make good on a $15 million per season contract. Fans have grown tired of his warts. Eason indeed plays basketball like a bull in a China shop. He’s reckless, and the only question is whether it benefits Houston or the opposing team more often.

For most of his NBA career, the answer has been Houston.

It may be callous to suggest, but his poor play ahead of RFA could be a blessing. Ultimately, we should only feel so bad for someone who missed out on $40 million if they’re still getting more money over four years than 99.999% of Americans will ever make in a lifetime. From the Rockets’ perspective, it’s well worth gambling $15 million a year – probably even 20 – that Eason will exceed that contract value.

Who knows where his career could go from here?

We’re coming down to the final stretch of the NBA regular season, and multiple races are tightening up.

Not only are the discussions for NBA Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Year intensifying, teams are closing their seasons with playoff seeding top of mind.

And the tightest cluster is in the middle of the Eastern Conference, where the race for the automatic playoff bid of the No. 6 seed will go down to the wire. Six different teams — the Hawks, 76ers, Raptors, Hornets, Magic and Heat — each have pathways to end up there.

Here are USA TODAY Sports’ NBA power rankings after Week 22 of the 2025-26 regular season:

USA TODAY Sports NBA power rankings

Note: Records and stats through April 5. Parentheses show movement from last week’s rankings.

NBA Week 23 power rankings: Top 10

1. Oklahoma City Thunder, 62-16 (+1)

2. San Antonio Spurs, 59-19 (-1)

3. Detroit Pistons, 57-21 (—)

4. Boston Celtics, 53-25 (—)

5. Denver Nuggets, 50-28 (+1)

6. New York Knicks, 50-28 (+1)

7. Cleveland Cavaliers, 49-29 (+1)

8. Los Angeles Lakers, 50-28 (-3) 

9. Houston Rockets, 49-29 (+1)

10. Minnesota Timberwolves, 46-32 (—)

The big story here is the Los Angeles Lakers and their miserable week. Not only did they lose star Luka Dončić indefinitely to a hamstring injury, but Austin Reaves is also set to miss the remainder of the regular season with an oblique strain. Without those two, the Lakers suddenly become a very middling team and their prospects of a run in the postseason are compromised significantly.

This opens the door for the Denver Nuggets, who are tied with the Lakers with a 50-28 record, to take over the No. 3 seed in the West. Denver has won eight consecutive games, including a thrilling overtime win Sunday, April 5 over the Spurs.

And don’t sleep on the Rockets, who have won six consecutive games and have an outstanding +18.0 net rating over that span.

NBA Week 23 power rankings: Nos. 11-20

11. Atlanta Hawks, 45-33 (—)

12. Phoenix Suns, 43-35 (+1)

13. Toronto Raptors, 43-35 (-1)

14. Philadelphia 76ers, 43-35 (+1)

15. Charlotte Hornets, 43-36 (+3)

16. Orlando Magic, 42-36 (—)

17. Los Angeles Clippers, 40-38 (-3)

18. Miami Heat, 41-37 (-1)

19. Portland Trail Blazers, 40-38 (—)

20. Golden State Warriors, 36-42 (—)

The Hawks continue to be the hottest team in the East, but the story in this group is the absolute logjam in the middle of the conference. Just 2 games separate the No. 6 team, the Sixers, and the No. 10 team, the Heat.

All of this is making the race for that six-seed rather compelling down the stretch. The Hornets, winners of four consecutive games and owners of the NBA’s best offensive rating (123.0) since the All-Star break, are in position to potentially sneak into that spot.

Otherwise, most of the teams in that group — the Raptors (4-6), Magic (4-6) and Heat (3-7) — have stumbled somewhat in their last 10 games.

NBA Week 23 power rankings: Nos. 21-30

21. Milwaukee Bucks, 31-47 (—)

22. Chicago Bulls, 29-49 (—) 

23. Dallas Mavericks, 25-53 (+1)

24. Memphis Grizzlies, 25-53 (-1)

25. New Orleans Pelicans, 25-54 (—)

26. Sacramento Kings, 21-58 (+1)

27. Utah Jazz, 21-58 (-1)

28. Brooklyn Nets, 19-59 (—)

29. Indiana Pacers, 18-60 (+1)

30. Washington Wizards, 17-61 (-1)

The most exciting element for the teams in this group is the play of the young emerging stars. None is brighter than Cooper Flagg, who became the youngest player in NBA history (and first teenager) to drop 50 points in a game. Flagg followed that up with a 45-point, 9-assist, 8-rebound masterpiece to claw back into the Rookie of the Year race and became the youngest player in history to record 45 or more points in consecutive games.

But, with a handful of games left to play, practically all these teams are more focused on draft plans and summer vacations.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NBA power rankings: Lakers lose Luka and spiral ahead of playoffs

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It’s a potential NBA First Round playoff preview tonight, when the Detroit Pistons visit the Orlando Magic.

The Pistons, with the Eastern Conference’s top seed already clinched, are road favorites against a Magic team fighting for the eighth seed.

With plenty of key injuries on both sides, my Pistons vs Magic predictions and free NBA picks will target the Under on Monday, April 6.

Pistons vs Magic prediction

Pistons vs Magic best bet: Under 225 (-110)

The Detroit Pistons have carried the weight without their star, with eight wins in 10 games sans Cade Cunningham.

Their offensive scoring split is nearly identical, averaging 117.8 points during this stretch (and 117.5 overall), but it’s the defense that’s been even tougher, moving from 109.4 points allowed per game to 106.2 over the last 10.

Isaiah Stewart is also sidelined, while Duncan Robinson (hip) and Tobias Harris (knee) are listed as questionable.

The Orlando Magic are coming off a 112-108 win over the Pelicans on Sunday and will be playing the second night of a back-to-back.

They’ve won four of their last six and sit just a half-game back of the Hornets for the eighth seed in the East, and just a game back of the Raptors for seventh.

However, they are averaging a lowly 112.3 points per game during this current fun run, which ranks 26th in the NBA.

They’re also down key contributors in Anthony Black (abdomen) and Jonathan Isaac (knee), while Jett Howard (ankle) is considered questionable.

These teams generally slug it out, with the Under cashing in seven of the last 10 head-to-heads, and, considering the circumstances, another low score seems like it’s on the way.

Detroit has generally clamped down when owning a rest advantage, with an 11-6-0 record in this scenario, a Top-5 mark in the league.

Pistons vs Magic same-game parlay

Jalen Duren has been a beast on the glass, grabbing at least 10 boards in 10 of his last 13, including topping Monday’s total eight times.

Desmond Bane is coming off a 27-point scoring night against NOLA, his second straight game hitting that number, and the fourth time in six games he’s cashed the Over.

Pistons vs Magic SGP

• Under 225
• Jalen Duren Over 10.5 rebounds
• Desmond Bane Over 18.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: Bank on Banchero

Daniss Jenkins has provided the playmaking with Cunningham sidelined. He had a season-best 14 dimes against Philly last game, and he’s had at least eight assists in the last 12 Detroit games.

And Paolo Banchero loves lighting up the Pistons, hitting at least 22 points in four straight games against Detroit.

Pistons vs Magic SGP

• Under 225
• Jalen Duren Over 10.5 rebounds
• Desmond Bane Over 18.5 points
• Daniss Jenkins Over 7.5 assists
• Paolo Banchero Over 21.5 points

Pistons vs Magic odds

• Spread: Pistons -2.5 (-110) | Magic +2.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: Pistons -155 | Magic +130
• Over/Under: Over 225 (-110) | Under 225 (-110)

Pistons vs Magic betting trend to know

The Magic have lost six straight vs Eastern Conference opponents. Find more NBA betting trends for Pistons vs. Magic.

How to watch Pistons vs Magic

Pistons vs Magic latest injuries

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We are four games from the end of this season. You may be surprised to learn that the season began in October and not last February, a time that’s often felt like one continuous trudge through drama and losing for 15 months. The light, and absolutely spectacular rookie season from Cooper Flagg, has maintained its energy all the way to the end. Flagg’s 96 points between Friday and Sunday’s games were a snapshot of a more than worthy rookie of the year campaign, and should make Mavericks fans excited to head into next fall. Pair with that the soon-to-be-drafting of his future running mate this summer, and this new era suddenly feels fresher.

And that’s why we’re here. At NBA Lottery Watch we’ve tracked the lottery maneuverings since the all-star break as the Mavericks wait with the other losing teams to see where the ping pong balls fall on May 10, determining where teams will draft this summer. Let’s dive in as we walk the final week of the season.

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Lottery standings

We warned in last week’s edition that there are some sticky moments at the end of this schedule. And while the Mavericks did plenty of losing, Sunday’s win made an impact as the Memphis Grizzlies and New Orleans Pelicans both lost. On the week as a whole those two teams went 0-4 while the Mavericks went 1-3. Those results left Dallas falling from sixth to eighth in the lottery order. Does a roughly 8% difference in a shot at a top four spot really matter? No, probably not. The real impact, as we’ve said before, is when teams behind you jump forward, leaving you falling further back toward the fringes of this draft’s depth.

That said, even with these teams having nothing real to play for entering the postseason, there are a few key games remaining that could impact the lottery draw odds on May 10.

Weekly schedule

Dallas has the toughest remaining schedule of the three teams, although the Clippers are really the only team that is fighting for playoff positioning — Phoenix and San Antonio are all but locked in their spot. But it’s the other two facing the Utah Jazz that is worth keeping track of. The Jazz have lost 13 of their last 14, and have been so aggressive in their losing that they’ve actually moved up to the fourth spot ahead of the Sacramento Kings. Hard to imagine they’ll let up now — so that game for the Pelicans and Grizzlies really leave the Mavericks their primary opportunity to move back up in the standings.

• Dallas Mavericks: @ Los Angeles Clippers, @ Phoenix Suns, @ San Antonio Spurs, vs. Chicago Bulls
• New Orleans Pelicans: vs. Utah Jazz, @ Boston Celtics, @ Minnesota Timberwolves
• Memphis Grizzlies: vs. Cleveland Cavaliers, @ Denver Nuggets, @ Utah Jazz, @ Houston Rockets

If that doesn’t happen, we’ll have to cross fingers that the consistent effort of this team, and their refusal to sit core players at the end of the season builds enough positive karma to send the Mavericks forward in the draw.

Average active salary each team has played with since all star break:

Dallas: $113 million

Memphis: $38 million
Jazz: $48 million
Wizards: $55 million
Kings: $58 million

Will the Bball gods reward the ethical tank?

— MONEY ON THE FLOOR (@MOTF_NBA) April 6, 2026

One magic spin

Each week we’ll take one spin around the block at tankathon.com and see where the chips fall. And the basketball gods shown down on the ethical tank this week. For the first time in the two months we’ve been hosting lottery watch the Dallas Mavericks jumped seven spots to take the number one pick, for what would be the second year in a row.

Complete chaos across the board on this one, to a completely unrealistic degree. The Indiana Pacers are the only team to keep their top four spot, while everyone else went tumbling backward. The Mavericks leapt forward with the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls. This image once again paints the picture of why positioning as high as possible matters in the event you end up falling.

The Phoenix Suns went 2-2 this week with wins against the Grizzlies and Bulls, and losses to the Magic and Hornets. The team officially completed their four-game road trip and their second-to-last week of the regular season.

Here are the main questions for Week 24 we want your thoughts on:

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Heading for the 7th Seed

It’s nearly a lock that the Suns will be the Western Conference’s 7th seed, meaning they’ll host the West’s eighth seed in the first round of the Play-In Tournament. The Trailblazers and Clippers are currently tied for the eighth spot. Phoenix went 2-1 against the Blazers and 2-2 against Los Angeles. This year is set to be Phoenix’s first time in the play-in since it was created during the 2019-2020 season. Having already clinched a record over .500, the Suns have surpassed many people’s preseason expectations, despite some struggles the past few months.

If someone had told you before the season that the Suns were going to be the 7th seed in the West, would you have believed them?

Starting Lineup Change

With Dillon Brooks and Mark Williams back in the starting lineup, the Suns started them alongside Devin Booker, Jalen Green, and Jordan Goodwin in yesterday’s win against the Bulls. It was the first time the Suns went with that starting lineup this year, and it sent Royce O’Neale and Collin Gillespie to the bench. O’Neale leads the team in starts this year, while Gillespie is third behind Devin Booker. Gillespie and Goodwin played the same number of minutes, but the team had a different look to start the game. O’Neale played 21 minutes.

How do you feel about the Suns’ playing a new starting lineup this late into the season with their main starters all healthy?

Additionally, Jordan Ott shrank the rotation, playing just nine guys on Sunday. Do you think that’s a sign of things to come as the Play-In nears?

A New Sun in the Record Books

After hitting two threes on Thursday, Collin Gillespie officially became the franchise leader in most threes made in a season, surpassing Quentin Richardson’s record he set in the 2004-2005 season. With 230 threes, the guard is hitting three triples a game at a 41% clip. Coming into the season, he was playing a reserve role, now, he’s leading the team in total minutes this year during his career season.

The Shot 🎯

Collin's triple for the most 3PM in a season in franchise history! pic.twitter.com/6RFuhJ7plZ

— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) April 2, 2026

What does Gillespie’s improvement say about the Suns’ ability to develop young talent? How much money would you be willing to pay to keep him in Phoenix this offseason?

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On the Suns’ Plate this Week

The Suns will face Kevin Durant on Tuesday at the Mortgage Matchup Center for the first time since he was traded to the Rockets in the offseason. Then, they’ll host the Mavericks on Wednesday for the final home game of the regular season, before they head to Los Angeles to play the Lakers on Friday, to set up their final game of the regular season on Sunday, when they’ll play the Thunder.

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Even in a slightly underwhelming regular season, the Cleveland Cavaliers can hit the 50-win mark tonight as they visit the Memphis Grizzlies.

Memphis has dropped four straight and could boost its lottery odds with another loss here, so my Cavaliers vs. Grizzlies predictions expect Donovan Mitchell and James Harden to lead the onslaught at FedExForum.

Check out my NBA picks for this April 6 clash, with both squads on the second night of a back-to-back set.

Cavaliers vs Grizzlies prediction

Cavaliers vs Grizzlies best bet: Cavaliers -15.5 (-110)

The Cleveland Cavaliers would surely prefer to hang onto the No. 4 seed and avoid the Celtics-Knicks side of the East bracket, but they’re 8-2 straight up in their last 10 and heavy favorites to breeze past the Memphis Grizzlies tonight.

I’m riding with a Cleveland team that’s won the last six meetings with Memphis, and there’s every reason to expect that streak to continue, given the Grizzlies’ recent form. Three of the hosts’ past four losses have come by a margin of 15+ points, and Cedric Coward and GG Jackson both missed yesterday’s defeat in Milwaukee. 

This is a lot of points to lay, especially after a sleepy Cavs win over the Pacers last night, but it’ll only take one quality stretch from Donovan Mitchell and James Harden to put this game on ice. The visitors may also have Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen back to control the paint and paper over lapses on the perimeter.

The numbers point to the Cleveland offense as the difference-maker. The Cavs average 119.3 points per game, fueled by the seventh-most 3-pointers attempted, while the Grizzlies are giving up 119.7, the sixth-most in the league.

Memphis is 26-33 against the spread as an underdog, so I prefer to trust a Cleveland squad that’s 24-15 SU on the road and has Mitchell coming off a 38-point outburst.

Cavaliers vs Grizzlies same-game parlay

Putting aside Harden’s playoff no-shows for a moment, he’s a regular-season winner, and I expect him to have his fingerprints all over a Cavs win today.

He averaged 8.1 assists in March, and he’s knocked down eight 3-pointers across his past two outings. If at least one of Mobley and Allen is available, those lob threats will boost The Beard’s dimes tally.

Cavaliers vs Grizzlies SGP

• Cavaliers -15.5
• James Harden Over 7.5 assists
• James Harden Over 2.5 made threes

Our "from downtown" SGP: The Mitchell Report

Mitchell is the key to a deep Cavs postseason run, and I love all the Overs for Spida tonight. He’s averaging 27.8 PPG, and he’s had six assists in two of his last three games. It’s hard to see Memphis keeping him out of the paint here.

Cavaliers vs Grizzlies SGP

• Cavaliers -15.5
• Donovan Mitchell Over 25.5 points
• Donovan Mitchell Over 2.5 made threes
• Donovan Mitchell Over 5.5 assists

Cavaliers vs Grizzlies odds

• Spread: Cavaliers -15.5 (-110) | Grizzlies +15.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: Cavaliers -1600 | Grizzlies +900
• Over/Under: Over 234.5 (-110) | Under 234.5 (-110)

Cavaliers vs Grizzlies betting trend to know

The Grizzlies are 1-9 SU in their last 10 contests. Find more NBA betting trends for Cavaliers vs. Grizzlies.

How to watch Cavaliers vs Grizzlies

Cavaliers vs Grizzlies latest injuries

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After suffering a narrow, overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets on Saturday, the San Antonio Spurs will look to get back on track in front of the home crowd when they host Paul George, Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and the Philadelphia 76ers at Frost Bank Center.

With Philly’s Big 3 finally healthy, the home team will have a tough test, and my 76ers vs. Spurs predictions expect a big night from Embiid, who had a career-best scoring performance in his first career meeting with Victor Wembanyama.

Here are my best free NBA picks for this cross-conference matchup on Monday, April 6.

76ers vs Spurs prediction

76ers vs Spurs best bet: Joel Embiid Over 38.5 points + rebounds + assists (-112)

Joel Embiid has missed more games than he’s played this season, but he’s appeared in four of the Philadelphia 76ers’ last six games. Embiid was on a roll before missing time, hitting the Over on this combo line in 10 of 12 games. He’s reached that mark in two of four since returning.

The Sixers have gone as Embiid has this season. He’s recorded at least 39 PRA in 18 of 37 games. In those, the Sixers are 14-4 straight up, and they kept the score within eight points in all four losses.

The big man is averaging 38.3 PRA on the season, so a slightly above-average performance will get the job done tonight.

Embiid has faced Victor Wembanyama twice in his career. In his last game out, he logged only 14 minutes, finishing with a muted stat line. In his first, Embiid put on a clinic and delivered 70 points, 18 rebounds, and five assists, nearly doubling the Over on this line with points alone.

Wembanyama was torched by another big and physical center on Saturday, as Nikola Jokic posted 40 points, eight rebounds, and 13 assists. Embiid can find success against the French superstar by leveraging his weight advantage and physicality to make the game less comfortable for his lanky opponent.

The San Antonio Spurs' defensive rating of 110.2 is third-best in the Association, but it has fallen to 17th across the team’s last seven home games, making this an exploitable spot for Embiid.

76ers vs Spurs same-game parlay

With four games left, the Spurs are essentially locked into the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, while the 76ers need every win to secure a playoff spot.

Only two games separate the No. 6 Sixers and the No. 10 Miami Heat. Philly is 4-1 ATS across its last five road games, and I expect the Sixers to play competitive basketball with their Big 3 available.

The 76ers have averaged 123 points across 18 games in which Embiid posted 39+ PRA. The Spurs defense has slipped in recent games, but San Antonio’s offense continues to hum thanks to Wembanyama, De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and several key role players. Points won’t be tough to find tonight.

76ers vs Spurs SGP

• Joel Embiid Over 38.5 points + rebounds + assists
• 76ers +8.5
• Over 235.5

Our "from downtown" SGP: Big 3 Combomaxxing

Embiid recorded a double-double in his last game out, and he's hit that statistical milestone nine times this season.

Tyrese Maxey is averaging a career-best 39.4 PRA, and he's posted 40.9 on the road compared to 38.1 at home. After missing an extended period of time, he's hit the Over on this combo line in four of five games since returning to the lineup.

Paul George has averaged a healthy 36.3 PRA in six games since returning from a lengthy layoff. PG has hit the Over on this line in three straight and five of six. He's averaged 28.9 PRA on the road compared to 25.2 at home this season, and he's gone for 27+ in eight of 15 on the road.

76ers vs Spurs SGP

• Joel Embiid double-double
• Tyrese Maxey Over 34.5 points + rebounds + assists
• Paul George Over 26.5 points + rebounds + assists

76ers vs Spurs odds

• Spread: 76ers +8.5 (-110) | Spurs -8.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: 76ers +280 | Spurs -360
• Over/Under: Over 237 (-110) | Under 237 (-110)

76ers vs Spurs betting trend to know

The Philadelphia 76ers have covered the Spread in 25 of their last 40 away games (+10.70 Units / 24% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for 76ers vs. Spurs.

How to watch 76ers vs Spurs

76ers vs Spurs latest injuries

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Two teams still fighting to improve their playoff seeding face off tonight as the Atlanta Hawks host the New York Knicks.

Atlanta is one of the hottest teams in the NBA, and I like them to pick up a home win tonight in my Knicks vs. Hawks predictions.

Read on for a full breakdown of tonight’s matchup and to see my free NBA picks for Monday, April 6.

Knicks vs Hawks prediction

Knicks vs Hawks best bet: Hawks -1.5 (-110)

The Atlanta Hawks have won 18 of 20 games since February 22 to play their way into the Eastern Conference's No. 5 seed after playing well under .500 for most of the season.

That run hasn’t just been good for fans, either. Bettors have taken advantage, as the Hawks have also covered in 16 of those 20 games, one of the best long-term ATS streaks we’ve seen all season.

In this case, there’s a clear reason for the turnaround. This isn’t the same team Atlanta had at the start of the season. The additions of CJ McCollum and Jonathan Kuminga have completely changed the roster's dynamics, and somehow, they’ve found chemistry with perennial triple-double threat Jalen Johnson virtually overnight.

The New York Knicks are coming off two straight wins, but their current form remains unclear, with those victories coming over the Grizzlies and Bulls. New York previously lost three straight on the road, and it's failed to win a game against a team above .500 in a month, going 0-5 in such games since March 6. 

I can’t bank on the Knicks turning that trend around against a team playing as well as anyone in the NBA right now, especially on the road. I love the Hawks to win outright, and with a spread of just 1.5 points, the better value is on Atlanta to cover.

Knicks vs Hawks same-game parlay

While the Hawks generally play to higher scores, they’ve also shown a willingness to play at their opponents' speed, such as in their two recent low-scoring affairs against the Celtics. With New York hitting the Under in four of its last five, I’m expecting another tonight.

I’m also backing Nickeil Alexander-Walker (20.6 PPG) to hit his scoring total. The Atlanta guard has scored 20 points in six of his last seven games and is averaging 23.4 in that span.

Knicks vs Hawks SGP

• Hawks -1.5
• Under 226.5
• Nickeil Alexander-Walker Over 19.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: Jalen combos x2

For our longshot SGP, let’s bet on both Jalens to have big nights and show off their versatility. The Jalen Johnson triple-double prop is always a fun one, and while it’s now been eight games since he’s hit that mark, it’s important to remember that Johnson has 13 on the year.

Meanwhile, Jalen Brunson is coming off a 17-point, 10-assist performance against the Bulls, giving him two double-doubles in his last four outings.

Knicks vs Hawks SGP

• Jalen Johnson triple-double
• Jalen Brunson double-double

Knicks vs Hawks odds

• Spread: Knicks +1.5 (-110) | Hawks -1.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: Knicks +100 | Hawks -120
• Over/Under: Over 226.5 (-110) | Under 226.5 (-110)

Knicks vs Hawks betting trend to know

The Hawks are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games overall. Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. Hawks.

How to watch Knicks vs Hawks

Knicks vs Hawks latest injuries

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Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets search for their ninth straight win tonight as they face the Portland Trail Blazers at Ball Arena.

My Trail Blazers vs. Nuggets predictions are targeting Jokic to drop dimes on Portland at home.

Read more in my NBA picks for Monday, April 6.

Trail Blazers vs Nuggets prediction

Trail Blazers vs Nuggets best bet: Nikola Jokic Over 11.5 assists (+105)

Nikola Jokic is comfortably in the running for MVP, averaging 27.9 points, 12.9 rebounds, and an NBA-best 10.9 assists per game. The Joker is the best passing big we’ve ever seen in the Association, and arguably the best playmaker in the league right now.

The Serb is thriving lately as a facilitator. He’s cashed the Over in dimes in six of his last seven contests. Jokic is coming off a 13-assist game against the San Antonio Spurs, and he also dished out 12 dimes last Wednesday versus the Utah Jazz.

The Joker is averaging 11.2 assists at home this season, and he’s also averaging a ridiculous 12.7 dimes across his last 10 appearances. The Portland Trail Blazers are around the middle of the pack in assists allowed.

Jokic cannot be stopped lately with his passing abilities, and all signs point to him creating lots of offense again tonight for his teammates.

Trail Blazers vs Nuggets same-game parlay

Jamal Murray is having a career year, and his three-point shooting is a big reason for it. The guard is averaging 3.2 makes from deep on 7.5 attempts for a 43.4% clip. Murray has cashed the Over in three of his last five.

Most importantly, the veteran is averaging 3.7 makes from long range against Portland this season for a 44% clip. The Blazers have typically been a tough matchup for opposing PGs from three-point land, but not for Murray. He’ll find a rhythm again.

The Denver Nuggets are 2-1 against Portland this season, notching back-to-back wins. They hammered the Blazers 157-103 in February before a 128-112 victory at Ball Arena in March.

Denver has also covered tonight’s spread in two of their last three outings. The Nuggets are playing some of their best basketball of the season right now.

Trail Blazers vs Nuggets SGP

• Nikola Jokic Over 11.5 assists
• Jamal Murray Over 3.5 threes
• Nuggets -8.5

Our "from downtown" SGP: Buckets pouring in

Denver is the highest-scoring team in the Association, averaging 121.6 ppg. They’ve cashed the team total Over in back-to-back games, scoring 136 against the Spurs and 130 against Utah. They’ve also hit the Over in two straight versus Portland.

Christian Braun is cooking lately, cashing the Over in points in two in a row. He contributed 21 points in the win over San Antonio and 18 in the contest before that. Braun is averaging 13.5 PPG at home compared to 10.5 on the road.

Trail Blazers vs Nuggets SGP

• Jamal Murray Over 3.5 threes
• Nuggets -8.5
• Nuggets Over 122.5 points
• Christian Braun Over 12.5 points

Trail Blazers vs Nuggets odds

• Spread: Portland +7.5 (-105) | Denver -7.5 (-115)
• Moneyline: Portland +260 | Denver -320
• Over/Under: Over 238 (-110) | Under 238 (-110)

Trail Blazers vs Nuggets betting trend to know

The Denver Nuggets have hit the Game Total Over in 30 of their last 50 games (+8.00 Units / 15% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Trail Blazers vs. Nuggets.

How to watch Trail Blazers vs Nuggets

Trail Blazers vs Nuggets latest injuries

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On April 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Michigan men’s basketball will compete on the biggest, most pressure-packed stage its sport has to offer when it takes on UConn in the championship game of the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

It’s the latest step in a remarkable turnaround for the program.

Just two years ago, the Wolverines were reeling from an 8-24 season that led to the firing of Michigan legend Juwan Howard as head coach. Since hiring Dusty May as his replacement, though, Michigan has transformed itself into one of the best programs in the country. This year, the Wolverines are 36-3 and have won their five NCAA tournament games by an average of 21.6 points.

REQUIRED READING: 5 reasons Michigan will beat UConn for national championship — and one reason it won't

Tonight, they’ll have the opportunity to do something they haven’t in a generation.

Heading into its matchup against UConn, here’s a look at Michigan’s championship history:

When did Michigan men's basketball last win a national championship?

Michigan will be going for its first national championship since 1989, when the Wolverines won the first and only title in program history.

It was one of the more memorable championship runs in NCAA tournament history. 

Shortly before the tournament started, Michigan coach Bill Frieder stepped down to become the new coach at Arizona State, with assistant coach Steve Fisher taking over for him. After surviving against Xavier in a 3-versus-14 matchup with a five-point win in the first round, the Wolverines advanced to their first Final Four in 13 years. There, they edged Big Ten foe Illinois and its famed Flying Illini team 83-81 before beating Seton Hall 80-79 in overtime in the national championship game thanks to a pair of made free throws from Rumeal Robinson with three seconds remaining in the extra period after a controversial foul call on Pirates guard Gerald Greene.

That year, Wolverines star Glen Rice scored 184 points across six NCAA tournament games, an NCAA record that still stands.

How many national championships does Michigan have?

Michigan will be vying for its second-ever national championship when it takes on UConn, as the 1989 title remains the only one in program history.

The Wolverines have been close over the past 35 years to adding another championship to their trophy case. They lost in the national championship game in 1992 and 1993 with the famed Fab Five. Under coach John Beilein, Michigan made a pair of national championship games in the 2010s, but lost to Louisville in 2013 and Villanova in 2018.

Michigan national championship results

Monday will mark the seventh time Michigan has appeared in the national championship game. The Wolverines have a 1-5 record in their previous six appearances.

Here’s a look at the results of those games:

• 1965: UCLA 91, Michigan 80
• 1976: Indiana 86, Michigan 68
• 1989: Michigan 80, Seton Hall 79 (OT)
• 1992: Duke 71, Michigan 51
• 1993: North Carolina 77, Michigan 71
• 2013: Louisville 82, Michigan 76
• 2018: Villanova 79, Michigan 62

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Michigan basketball's last national championship: Wolverines 1989 team