Backlash hits Chainsmokers' first Final Four concert
The Chainsmokers performed between NCAA men's basketball Final Four semifinal games Saturday night at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, the first such concert in tournament history. The electronic duo took the stage after UConn defeated Illinois, delaying Michigan's tipoff against Arizona from its scheduled 8:49 p.m. ET start until around 9:20 p.m. Several fans and sports media figures criticized the timing on social media.
Dave Portnoy of Barstool Sports called the performance akin to a lost bet and questioned its logic despite liking the duo. ESPN's Scott Van Pelt asked who requested it and later called the slot odd. Portnoy, a Michigan supporter, noted relief that the delay did not affect the Wolverines.
Michigan defeated Arizona 91-73, with Aday Mara scoring 26 points on 11-of-16 shooting to go with nine rebounds and three assists. Trey McKenney added 16 points off the bench, including four three-pointers. Yaxel Lendeborg, playing through a sprained MCL and ankle injury, logged 14 minutes for 11 points, three rebounds and one assist; he vowed to play in the championship game.
Michigan advances to Monday's national title matchup against UConn, its first appearance since a 2018 final loss to Villanova.
