Has Michigan Turned A Corner Defensively?

NOAH TRISTER,AP Sports Writer

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Heading into the NCAA tournament, Michigan's most glaring weakness was at the defensive end of the court.

After winning four straight games to reach the Final Four, the Wolverines are improving heading into Saturday's game against Syracuse.

Michigan was poor defensively for extended stretches against Kansas last week — but that was the only tournament game the Wolverines came close to losing. In wins over Florida, Virginia Commonwealth and South Dakota State, Michigan was a lot stingier.

Mitch McGary, a 6-foot-10 freshman, is giving opponents something to think about around the basket. Star point guard Trey Burke's quick hands are a factor on the perimeter.

Tim Hardaway Jr. and Glenn Robinson III can be overpowered down low, but they are athletic enough to contest outside shots.

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