USA TODAY International Edition
MICHIGAN VS. VILLANOVA
Analyzing the title-game matchup between the Wolverines and Wildcats
BACKCOURT: VILLANOVA
Jalen Brunson, the junior guard who already helped Villanova to one national title, is not just the best point guard still playing — he’s the best overall player. A savvy, scrappy throwback point guard who uses his IQ to win games, Brunson will be the difference maker for Villanova, especially if the game comes down to the last minute.
He is far from the only weapon on the perimeter, though: Pity those who overlook redshirt junior guard Phil Booth, who was instrumental in the national title game two years ago, scoring 20 points in 25 minutes off the bench as ’Nova topped North Carolina.
Michigan guards Charles Matthews, a junior, and Muhammad-Ali Abdur-Rahkman will have to play well offensively and defensively.
But experience counts, and this is Villanova’s second national championship appearance in three years. That will be most evident in the backcourt.
FRONTCOURT: MICHIGAN
Do you believe in Mo(e)? That refers to momentum, which Michigan has in spades right now, and Moritz Wagner, Michigan’s 6-11, 245-pound forward from Germany who is a handful for everyone. Wagner, a junior, is hitting his stride at the perfect time, just like the Wolverines. He can score inside and out, as evidenced by his 24-point, 15rebound performance on Saturday when he hit three threes and scored on put-backs. His motor knows no end, and his teammates feed off his energy.
On the flip side, Villanova’s Omari Spellman and Eric Paschall can provide matchup problems for Michigan because they, too, can stretch the floor, but no one matches Wagner’s motor. His teammates feed off his energy and emotion, and he can get them going at any time. He will also be the best passing big man on the floor.