Michigan looked every bit as dominant in the first round of the NCAA Tournament as it did through most of the regular season on Thursday night.

Shots were falling and the defense was stifling as the Wolverines cruised to a 74-55 victory over Montana to move on to the second round. Michigan has now won at least one game in the NCAA Tournament in each of the last three seasons.

Charles Matthews was firing on all cylinders, scoring 22 points and grabbing 10 rebounds in the win. Three other Wolverines hit double figures, Ignas Brazdeikis had 14, Jon Teske scored 11 and Jordan Poole added 10 points. Zavier Simpson had another huge night at the point, dishing 10 assists in the win.

Michigan was the aggressor from the opening tip, jumping out to an early 21-6 lead over Montana. Though the Grizzlies were able to make a few runs throughout the game, the Wolverines had too much talent on both ends of the floor.

Montana shot just 33.3 percent from the floor and made only 13 trips to the free throw line. The Grizzlies converted on six of its 24 three-point attempts. Michigan also outrebounded Montana 39-30.

Even after a long run in the B1G Tournament last weekend, Michigan looked fresh and well-prepared for Thursday’s game against Montana. That’s a good sign as the Wolverines get ready to take on Florida in the second round on Saturday.

Each of the last two years, Michigan has reached the Sweet 16, which includes last year’s trip to the national championship game. The Wolverines need a win over the Gators on Saturday to get back to the Sweet 16 for a third straight year.