Volume 26:17

UConn to the Finals

The Connecticut Huskies handled the Illinois Fighting Illini to advance to the NCAA Men’s Basketball championship game. This will be the Huskies’ third title game appearance in four seasons. They are also going for their third championship in four seasons, as they won in both 2023 and 2024. The Fighting Illini opened as 1.5 point favorites in this semifinals match. However, Dan Hurley and UConn were ready and fought their way through. UConn jumped out to a quick nine-point lead. Illinois clawed back taking a one-point advantage. UConn had other plans, taking a 37-29 lead into halftime. Illinois fought their way to make it relatively close, but couldn’t take a lead. UConn won 71-62 to advance to the finals.

Michigan Topples Arizona

In a battle of #1 seeds, the Michigan Wolverines took on the Arizona Wildcats. This game was never close. The Wildcats didn’t lead and the Wolverines led by as much as 30. Michigan won 91-73 to advance to the national title game. The Wolverines shot 44% from behind the three-point line. Yaxel Lendeborg had 11 points and left the game early. The Wolverines advance to play UConn for the national championship.

NHL Playoff Check-In

The NHL Playoffs are around the corner. How is each Eastern Conference team faring against their potential playoff matchup (based on the standings if the playoffs started today)?

Atlantic Division

Tampa Bay Lightning-102 points

3-0 vs. Boston Bruins

The Lightning are yet to lose to the Bruins this season. Tampa got their first win of the season against Boston and got their most recent victory against Boston. The also beat Boston in the Stadium Series outdoor game in Tampa.

Montreal Canadiens-100 points

2-2 vs. Buffalo Sabres

The Habs split the season series with Buffalo. Montreal has not yet clinched the postseason, unlike Tampa Bay and Buffalo. The Canadiens are currently riding an eight-game win streak.

Buffalo Sabres-100 points

2-2 vs. Montreal Canadiens

The Sabres officially ended their 14-year playoff drought. The Sabres have been the surprise of the NHL this season, after finishing low down in the standings last year.

Metropolitan Division

Carolina Hurricanes-104 points

1-0 vs. Ottawa Senators

The Canes and Sens only play each other twice a season. The Canes beat Ottawa 4-3 in their first meeting. Their second meeting is this afternoon.

Pittsburgh Penguins-94 points

2-1 vs. New York Islanders

The Penguins have shocked the NHL with their great season. Pittsburgh finished at the bottom of the barrel last season and is now going to make the playoffs.

New York Islanders-89 points

1-2 vs. Pittsburgh Penguins

Similar to the Penguins, the Isles finished at the bottom of the standings and made a surprising playoff run. We’ll have to see how they fare in this appearance.

Wild Card Race

Bruins-94 points

Senators-88 points

Red Wings-88 points

Flyers-88 points

Blue Jackets-88 points

Capitals-87 points

Devils-81 points