Auburn and Michigan Set for Sweet 16 Clash of Elite Frontcourts

Top-seeded Auburn faces fifth-seeded Michigan tonight in Atlanta, with contrasting styles and standout players defining this NCAA Tournament matchup.

Auburn, the NCAA Tournament's top overall seed, seeks its third Elite Eight appearance and program-record 31st win this season.
Michigan, revitalized under first-year coach Dusty May, has relied on key transfers like Vladislav Goldin and Danny Wolf to fuel its Cinderella run.
Auburn's defensive strategy will focus on containing Michigan's standout frontcourt duo of Goldin and Wolf, who have been pivotal for the Wolverines' success.
Coach Bruce Pearl praised Michigan's 7-footers, comparing them to NBA legends Kevin McHale, Robert Parish, and Larry Bird for their unique skills and chemistry.
The game, set for 7:39 p.m. ET at State Farm Arena, highlights the broader impact of the NCAA transfer portal on reshaping college basketball dynamics.