Michigan Wolverines defeated the Howard Bison 101-80 in the first round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. The victory marked a record-setting performance for the Wolverines, reaching a century mark in an NCAA Tournament opener, according to MGoBlue.
Five sports writers from the Detroit Free Press predicted a Michigan win, though with varying scores. Tony Garcia forecasted a 92-60 victory, citing Michigan’s size advantage and an anticipated return to form after a disappointing showing in the Big Ten Tournament championship. Carlos Monarrez predicted a 85-68 win, acknowledging Howard’s tournament experience but emphasizing Michigan’s superior size and depth. Jeff Seidel anticipated a 82-61 score, noting the potential for a partisan crowd favoring Michigan State, who played prior to the Wolverines. Chris Solari predicted a blowout, 94-73, believing Michigan was motivated to prove their loss to Purdue was an anomaly. Shawn Windsor also foresaw a comfortable win for Michigan, 91-67, stating the Wolverines were “too big, too athletic and too motivated” for Howard.
Howard entered the tournament with momentum, having secured their first-ever NCAA Tournament win against UMBC. However, Michigan’s size and depth proved to be insurmountable. The Wolverines’ performance signaled an adjustment to life without L.J. Cason, according to Shawn Windsor of the Detroit Free Press.
The game was broadcast nationally, with instructions available on Yahoo Sports for viewers wishing to watch the contest. Extended highlights of the game were available on NCAA.com.
Leave a Reply