Michigan Wolverines edge UC San Diego in thrilling March Madness opener

On March 20, 2025, in Denver, Colorado, the Michigan Wolverines faced the UC San Diego Tritons in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The Wolverines, who secured a No. 5 seed with a 25-9 record, were fresh off winning the Big Ten title, marking a significant turnaround from their prior season's performance. Their opponent, UC San Diego, was making its first-ever NCAA Division I tournament appearance after moving up from Division II and winning the Big West regular-season and tournament titles. Despite boasting the nation's longest winning streak, the Tritons struggled in the initial phases of the game, allowing Michigan to build a substantial lead. Vladislav Goldin shone for the Wolverines, contributing significantly with 14 points, while the Tritons' Tyler McGhie led his team with 25 points. As the game progressed, UC San Diego managed to narrow Michigan's lead, even taking a brief lead at 65-63 late in the game with a critical bucket by McGhie. Tensions escalated as the game reached its conclusion, culminating in a last-second three-point attempt from McGhie that would have tied the game, but it failed to find the basket due to strong defensive pressure. With their victory, Michigan advanced to the next round of the tournament, demonstrating resilience and determination despite UC San Diego's spirited performance. This game highlighted the excitement of March Madness and the unpredictable nature of tournament play, showcasing emerging talents and the high stakes involved in each matchup. The Wolverines now look forward to their next challenge as they aim for a deep run in the tournament. Overall, this high-stakes game encapsulated the essence of the NCAA Tournament, with its dramatic twists and heart-pounding moments, illustrating why fans and players alike are drawn to this annual spectacle. Coach Dusty May's Wolverines will continue to build on this momentum as the tournament progresses.