The celebration was just beginning. Fresh off cutting down the nets in Phoenix, the Michigan Wolverines returned to Ann Arbor on Tuesday, bringing the national championship trophy home to a sea of maize and blue. Greeted by dozens of roaring fans at the Crisler Center, head coach Dusty May delivered a message that resonated with every supporter: “This trophy is yours.”

Standing atop the Junge Family Champions Center, May and his team looked over the crowd, a fitting scene for a program that finished its historic run on top of the college basketball world. “You brought it all year, every home game,” May said, his hand resting on the gleaming trophy. “You guys were there every step of the way.”

That final step was a gritty 69-63 victory over a powerhouse UConn team in Monday night’s title game. While Michigan’s offense had been record-setting throughout the tournament, it was their lockdown defense that sealed the deal, holding the Huskies to just 31% shooting from the field.

The Wolverines’ unique, all-transfer starting lineup proved to be the ultimate formula for success. Point guard Elliot Cadeau, crowned the Final Four's Most Outstanding Player, led the charge with 19 points. The inside presence of Morez Johnson Jr. (12 points, 10 rebounds) and Yaxel Lendeborg (13 points) provided the balance needed to withstand UConn’s final push.

The party at Crisler was a heartfelt thank you to the fans who fueled this remarkable journey. “You guys are amazing,” Lendeborg told the crowd before leading a spirited rendition of “The Victors.” “You made this season very, very special for me.”

With a unanimous No. 1 ranking in the final AP Poll, the 2024 Michigan Wolverines have cemented their legacy. From a team built through the transfer portal to a united champion celebrated by its community, this title truly belongs to Ann Arbor.