The roar of a championship celebration echoed through Ann Arbor once again. Hundreds of fans packed Crisler Arena on Tuesday, doing something the Michigan faithful hadn't experienced in 37 years: welcoming home an NCAA National Champion men's basketball team.

The scene was electric, a perfect sequel to the street celebrations that erupted Monday night after the Wolverines' gritty 69-63 victory over UConn in Indianapolis. As Coach Dusty May and his players emerged on a Crisler balcony, trophy in hand, the crowd erupted in cheers, chants, and a rousing rendition of "Hail to the Victors."

"This trophy is yours," May declared to the sea of maize and blue. "You brought it all year. You guys were there every step of the way." His words captured the essence of a true team victory, one shared between the players on the court and the legion of supporters behind them.

For lifelong fans like Jim and Pam Wiskochil, this was a cherished tradition. Specializing in team send-offs and arrivals, they've made it a point to show support for Michigan athletes across all sports. "It’s just thrilling; we are stoked," Jim said, his joy palpable. "I have to look down to see Cloud 9."

The moment carried a special resonance, coming just over a year after fans celebrated the return of Michigan's undefeated national champion football team in 2023. It marked a golden era for Wolverine athletics, a double dose of glory that students like pre-med freshman Avery Hurd from Detroit will never forget. "I’m happy to see all the fans cheering them on," Hurd said, reflecting a campus-wide euphoria that made for an unforgettable academic year.

The celebration is far from over. The team's triumphant return sets the stage for a victory parade and a ticketed event at Crisler Center this Saturday, giving even more fans a chance to salute their champions and cement this historic season in Michigan lore.