Michigan basketball is set to face off against Duke for the first time in 13 years, and this clash doesn't need any extra hype. It's a showdown between the No. 1 and No. 3 teams, both boasting a combined record of 49-3 this season. They sit atop the Kenpom rankings and feature the top two adjusted defenses in the nation.
The spotlight will be on the superstars. Cameron Boozer, projected as the No. 1 overall pick, is a force to be reckoned with.
He’s shooting an impressive 58% from the field and 39% from beyond the arc, scoring at least 15 points in every game for Duke. Holding Boozer under 50% shooting has been a rare feat, accomplished only four times this season.
Michigan will aim to make it five.
Defense will be Michigan's key strategy. Boozer is bound to score, but the goal is to make him work hard for every point and disrupt his efficiency.
Michigan's recent defensive performance against Trey Kauffman-Renn is a prime example. Kauffman-Renn needed 26 shots to score 27 points in their win over Purdue, with every basket fiercely contested.
Morez Johnson and Yaxel Lendeborg will be tasked with guarding Boozer. Johnson is one of the Big Ten's top defensive bigs, while Lendeborg is arguably the best defender in the conference. Their ability to challenge Boozer, who thrives in the post and can shoot from outside, will be critical.
Duke's 3-point shooting, led by Isaiah Evans at 36.1%, poses a threat, but Michigan won't be keen on giving open looks. While Boozer often faces double teams, Michigan plans to rely on one-on-one matchups, testing his ability to create plays under pressure.
Michigan's defense is formidable, known for its length, switchability, and elite rim protection. Boozer hasn't faced a defense quite like this, and if the Wolverines can force him below 50% shooting, it would significantly boost their chances of victory.
With both teams excelling defensively, the game will likely hinge on which side can impose its will on the other. Expect a defensive battle where the team that best executes its game plan will emerge victorious.