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1h ago

Michigan Blasts Auburn to Reach Players Era Final vs. Gonzaga

A $1 million NIL prize now awaits in a title matchup with Gonzaga.

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Nov 25, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) reacts during the second half in a 2025 Players Era Festival group play game against the Auburn Tigers at Michelob ULTRA Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
A general overall view as Iowa State Cyclones forward Joshua Jefferson (5) dribbles the ball against St. John's Red Storm forward Bryce Hopkins (23) over the 2025 Players Era Festival logo at midcourt in a group play game at Michelob Ultra Arena.
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Overview

  • Michigan improved to 6-0 and will face No. 12 Gonzaga on Wednesday in Las Vegas, where the winner receives $1 million in NIL compensation.
  • The Wolverines shot 52% to Auburn’s 36%, made 14 three-pointers and led by 28 at halftime, holding a 20-plus-point cushion for the final 24:29.
  • Yaxel Lendeborg and Roddy Gayle Jr. scored 17 points each, with Nimari Burnett and Morez Johnson Jr. adding 15 as six Wolverines reached double figures.
  • Michigan dominated key categories with a 51-35 edge on the glass and sizable advantages in second-chance points, paint scoring and fast-break points.
  • Players Era organizers said point differential will remain part of the format and plan to expand to 32 teams in 2026, and one report lists Darryn Peterson with a hamstring concern.