Michigan Basketball: 3 things we learned in Battle 4 Atlantis run

Howard beats elite coaches

Whether it was Roy Williams Thursday or Mark Few on Saturday, Juwan Howard went up against some of the best in the business and his team was successful.

As good as Howard appears to be as a leader and a motivator, which is significant, his on-court coaching ability was on full display over the weekend.

Against both Gonzaga and North Carolina, Howard employed a similar strategy. He wants to force other teams in long jumpers and with Teske patrolling the middle and Simpson guarding the point, it has worked like a charm.

Eli Brooks is another damn-good defender and Livers is improving. Colin Castleton also provides a solid presence inside when Teske rests or is in foul trouble.

But by dropping Teske into the paint more, it’s forcing teams to play more on the perimeter and from there, Michigan is defending the line to force teams to settle for long 2’s and neither the Zags or Tar Heels could make enough.

The faster tempo and the higher volume of ball screens have also been noticeable. The offense has been simply incredible, ranking in the top 10 in the nation in overall field goal percentage, 2-point percentage and 3-point percentage.

It’s been an amazing thing to watch and while Howard has a long way to go, Michigan basketball is in very good hands.