By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
European talent left a strong mark on both NCAA semifinal matchups, even as UConn Huskies and Michigan Wolverines men’s basketball punched their tickets to the national championship game.
UConn survived Illinois Fighting Illini 71–62 behind another clutch moment from Braylon Mullins, whose late three-pointer sealed the Huskies’ third title game appearance in four years.
While Illinois fell short, its European core stood out: Tomislav Ivišić led the way with 16 points and seven rebounds, Zvonimir Ivišić protected the rim with two blocks to go with five boards, Andrej Stojaković added nine points and eight rebounds, and David Mirković chipped in six points and five rebounds.
However, UConn’s physicality inside — powered by Tarris Reed Jr.’s 17 points and 11 rebounds — and elite defense proved decisive once again.
In the second semifinal, Michigan ended Arizona Wildcats men’s basketball’s dream run with a commanding 91–73 victory, setting up a showdown with UConn for the title.
European presence was again central, this time on the winning side, as Spanish big man Aday Mara dominated with 26 points on 11-of-16 shooting.
Elliot Cadeau orchestrated the offense with 13 points and 10 assists, while Ysaxel Lendeborg contributed 11 points despite limited minutes due to foul trouble and a knee issue. On the other end, Arizona’s standout freshman Koa Peat recorded a 16-point, 11-rebound double-double, but struggled with efficiency as the Wildcats cooled off at the worst possible moment.