MICHIGAN VS. VILLANOVA

Analyzing the title-game matchup between the Wolverines and Wildcats

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.

ROBERT DEUTSCH/USA TODAY SPORTS Wildcats junior point guard Jalen Brunson, who has averaged 19.2 points this season, was named Sunday as the winner of the Naismith Trophy for player of the year in college men’s basketball.