The 2013 Men’s Final Four tips off in Atlanta, Georgia today, headlined by one of the most intriguing match-ups of this season’s NCAA Tournament.
In the second semifinal game, following #1 Louisville vs. #9 Wichita State, #4 Syracuse will take on fellow #4 Michigan.
Both the Orange and Wolverines came into the tournament following late season disappointments.
Syracuse was outscored by Louisville 56-26 in the second half of the Big East Championship Game, en route to coughing up a 16 point lead and losing in a rout 78-61.
Meanwhile, Michigan limped into March Madness as they lost three of their last six games before the tournament.
Since the Madness began both teams have completely turned it around, as Syracuse has breezed through the tournament with four convincing wins, including an 11-point victory over #1 seed Indiana. A key to a Syracuse victory is the play of Michael Carter-Williams and C.J. Fair, who been huge for the Orange during their tournament run.
Michigan, has transformed into arguably the best team in the NCAA Tournament after limping into the 68-team postseason field, as they have finished wins against South Dakota State, VCU, Kansas, and Florida in order to reach the Georgia Dome.
The “x-factor” for the Wolverines will most likely be Nik Stauskas, who make six three pointers for Michigan in their 79-59 rout against #1 seed Kansas.
If Stauskas and Naismith Player of the Year nominee Trey Burke are consistent against Syracuse, and their interior defense contains C.J. Fair’s driving ability, the Wolverines could come out victorious Sunday night.
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