DENVER, Colo. -- The University of Michigan men’s basketball team narrowly secured a victory in their NCAA Tournament opener against the University of California, San Diego, decisively winning 68-65 on March 20, 2025, at Ball Arena. This first-round matchup was closely contested, illustrating the high stakes and intensity that typically characterize March Madness.
Despite being the fifth seed, Michigan showcased their resilience and skill, coming off a triumphant tenure under first-year head coach Dusty May. The Wolverines were able to advance in the tournament thanks in part to the late-game heroics of Vladislav Goldin, who made two crucial free throws in the waning moments of the game. Goldin finished the night with 14 points and seven rebounds, highlighting his importance to the team.
Michigan’s performance was marked by significant contributions from Tre Donaldson, who added 12 points and seven rebounds, and Roddy Gayle Jr., who contributed 11 points. The Wolverines started the game on a high note, jumping out to an impressive 10-0 lead as they looked to dominate the court early on.
As the first half progressed, Michigan maintained their lead, ultimately closing out the half with a 14-point advantage at 41-27. Their shooting efficiency was evident, hitting 53.1 percent of their shots (17-for-32) in the half while consistently pressuring UC San Diego on the defensive end. The Tritons began the game with difficulties, sinking only 34.4 percent of their attempts (11-for-32).
However, the second half proved to be a different story. Michigan faced challenges maintaining their lead as UC San Diego, a mid-major making their NCAA Tournament debut, exhibited a fierce comeback. After Goldin's initial free throw extended the lead early in the second half, UC San Diego executed a 12-point run, cutting the deficit to just three points, 42-39.
With just one minute remaining in the contest, Michigan held a slim one-point lead. Although the Wolverines failed to convert any scoring attempts, they regained possession following a missed layup by the Tritons. In a crucial moment, Goldin was fouled and sank both free throws. This pivotal moment propelled Michigan into a three-point lead, sealing their win when UC San Diego failed to score on their final possession.
The Wolverines are set to clash with Texas A&M in the Round of 32, after the Aggies defeated Yale in their first-round match. The game is scheduled for Saturday, March 22 at 3:15 p.m. MT, promising another thrilling contest.
Notably, Michigan's victory marks their return to the NCAA Tournament after a hiatus since 2022, and coach Dusty May celebrated his 26th win as the head coach, becoming the winningest first-year coach in the program's history. Previously, Michigan struggled at the close of the regular season, losing their last three games, but this win in the tournament maintained their postseason momentum, which now stands at 4-0 following a successful run in the Big Ten Tournament.
The significance of this match extends beyond just the win; it highlights the competitive nature of the NCAA Tournament, where underdogs like UC San Diego can rise to the occasion against powerhouse programs. The Tritons' defensive prowess and ability to force turnovers were notable, but ultimately it was Michigan's depth and experience that guided them through the pressure of this matchup.
Michigan's winning edge came from their dual 7-footers, Goldin and Danny Wolf, who combined for an impressive 23 points and 18 rebounds, steering the team through crucial moments. Observers noted that Michigan's ability to finish strong, having won 13 games by four points or fewer this season, places them in a unique historical context, tying the NCAA record for such close wins in a single season.
As Michigan prepares to tackle Texas A&M, they will be looking to not only advance further in the tournament but also establish their place in NCAA history as a contending powerhouse once again.
The victory was celebrated as a significant milestone for the program, indicating a turnaround fueled by strong leadership and player determination, reaffirming the Wolverines' commitment to making a lasting impact in this year’s tournament.
