Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
The 2013 National Championship game is only hours away and the world is anxious to see who prevails. The Michigan Wolverines are looking to win their first National Title since 1989 while absolving Chris Webber of all timeout-related demons. To do such marvelous things, however, whatever successes that Michigan plans on having will be directly tied to the play of Trey Burke.
Burke has won every individual collegiate award under the sun. However, as far as I know, they don’t count towards extra points to start a game. The superstar has the ability to be able to change the outcome of a game almost by his lonesome. There are some key areas, though, where Burke is going to need to excel — some of which involve not just putting the ball in the basket.
The Louisville Cardinals love to put an enormous amount of defensive pressure on their opponents. Rick Pitino has been known to even implement a full-court press here and there in an attempt to create turnovers and generate easy baskets. Burke will be relied upon to handle the ball more than usual. Also, depending on what form of defense Louisville throws at them, Burke may have to play the role of distributor more than basket-maker.
Obviously, expect the Cardinals to focus much of their strategy in an effort to contain Burke. Michigan will attempt to use Burke off screens or through motion, but a majority of Burke’s best offense is when he creates his own shot. If Burke is able to avoid traps, giving up the ball unnecessarily or getting stuck in a state of stagnancy, he should be able to do what he has done all year — be one of the best players in the nation.
Joe is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @JosephNardone, “Like” his Facebook page and add him to your Google Circle things.
