Final Four X-factors, unsung heroes who can be key to national championship

At this stage of the 2026 Men’s NCAA Tournament, if you do not know who Yaxel Lendeborg is, you’re either lying or haven’t been paying attention.

The same holds for the Michigan basketball star, is true for Arizona’s Koa Peat, Illinois’ Keaton Wagler and Connecticut’s Terrian Reed. These four have been among the best players in March Madness, but have also proven themselves over the course of the season.

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For either the Wolverines, Wildcats, Fighting Illini or the Huskies to win the 2026 national championship, they’ll need their best players to shine in the biggest moments of the year when the quartet plays in the Final Four on Saturday, April 4, from Indianapolis.

However, just because a star has a big game, it does not mean these teams can easily be knocked off. Just ask Alabama and Labaron Philon. The Crimson Tide star matched a career-high of 35 points, but got little help from his supporting cast, causing Alabama to lose to Michigan in the Sweet 16.

All four stars will need help from a potential unsung hero for their team to win a national title. Here’s a look at some potential candidates who could step up in that role:

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See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities

Iowa State Cyclones fans cheer against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 22, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri.

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See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities

Iowa State Cyclones fans cheer against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 22, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri.

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See best of March Madness 2026, from mascots and fans to celebrities

Kansas Jayhawks cheerleaders perform before a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament against the St. John’s…

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Publish date : 2026-04-01 10:07:00

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