Michigan Basketball 2013: A Look Back At The Roster

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the Michigan Wolverines basketball team from 2013. This was a spectacular year for Michigan, filled with thrilling games and unforgettable moments. The 2012-2013 season saw the Wolverines achieve a 31-8 overall record and a 13-5 record in the Big Ten Conference. They reached the Championship Game of the NCAA Tournament, losing to Louisville 82-76. To truly appreciate their journey, we need to dive deep into the roster that made it all possible. So, let's break down who these amazing players were, their roles, and what made them special.

The Starting Five

The heart and soul of the Michigan Wolverines basketball team during the 2012-2013 season was undeniably their starting five. These were the guys who consistently led the charge, setting the tone for each game with their skill, determination, and teamwork. Each player brought a unique set of talents to the court, creating a dynamic and formidable lineup that opponents struggled to contain. This starting five included Trey Burke, Tim Hardaway Jr., Glenn Robinson III, Mitch McGary, and Nik Stauskas. Their combined abilities, from sharp shooting to tenacious defense, were instrumental in the team's success. Their synergy and understanding of each other's strengths allowed them to execute plays effectively and maintain composure under pressure. The collective effort of these five players set the standard for the entire team, inspiring their teammates to elevate their game and contribute to the Wolverines' remarkable run in the NCAA Tournament. In examining each player's contribution, it becomes clear how vital the starting five was to the team's overall success, leading the charge with skill, determination, and teamwork. Their individual talents complemented each other seamlessly, creating a cohesive unit that was tough to beat on both ends of the court, making them the driving force behind the Wolverines' memorable season.

Trey Burke

Trey Burke, the sensational point guard, was the undisputed leader of the Michigan Wolverines basketball team in 2013. His exceptional court vision, ball-handling skills, and clutch shooting made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Burke wasn't just a scorer; he was a playmaker who consistently set up his teammates for easy baskets. His ability to penetrate the lane and either finish at the rim or dish out assists was a key component of Michigan's offensive success. During the 2012-2013 season, Burke averaged an impressive 18.6 points and 6.7 assists per game, earning him the prestigious Naismith College Player of the Year award. His leadership extended beyond the stat sheet. He was the floor general who kept his teammates composed and focused, especially in high-pressure situations. One of the most memorable moments of Burke's career at Michigan was his game-tying three-pointer against Kansas in the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA Tournament. His ability to rise to the occasion and deliver in the clutch exemplified his exceptional talent and unwavering confidence. Burke's impact on the Michigan Wolverines basketball team was immeasurable, and his legacy as one of the greatest players in program history is secure. His ability to control the tempo of the game, make smart decisions under pressure, and inspire his teammates set him apart as a true leader, leaving an unforgettable mark on Michigan basketball.

Tim Hardaway Jr.

Tim Hardaway Jr., a dynamic shooting guard, brought a potent scoring punch to the Michigan Wolverines basketball team. His ability to knock down shots from anywhere on the court made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Hardaway Jr. possessed a quick release and a smooth shooting stroke, allowing him to score in a variety of ways. Whether it was spotting up for three-pointers, driving to the basket, or creating his own shot off the dribble, he was a versatile offensive weapon. In the 2012-2013 season, Hardaway Jr. averaged 14.5 points per game and was often called upon to take big shots in crucial moments. His scoring prowess helped to alleviate pressure on Trey Burke and provided the Wolverines with a reliable second option on offense. Beyond his scoring ability, Hardaway Jr. was also a solid defender and rebounder. He was willing to do the dirty work and contribute in other areas of the game, making him a valuable all-around player. His consistent performance and unwavering effort were instrumental in the team's success. Hardaway Jr.'s presence on the court provided a sense of stability and confidence. His ability to step up in big games and deliver clutch performances made him a fan favorite and a key component of the Michigan Wolverines basketball team. His versatility and commitment to both ends of the court solidified his role as a vital contributor, leaving a lasting impact on the team's achievements.

Glenn Robinson III

Glenn Robinson III, an athletic and versatile forward, brought explosive energy and highlight-reel plays to the Michigan Wolverines basketball team. His exceptional athleticism allowed him to excel in transition, finish above the rim, and defend multiple positions. Robinson III was a human highlight reel, often electrifying the crowd with his acrobatic dunks and impressive athleticism. In the 2012-2013 season, Robinson III averaged 11.0 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. His ability to score in a variety of ways, whether it was cutting to the basket, spotting up for jumpers, or driving to the rim, made him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Beyond his offensive skills, Robinson III was also a valuable defender and rebounder. His length and athleticism allowed him to disrupt passing lanes, contest shots, and secure rebounds. His versatility and willingness to do whatever it took to help the team win made him a valuable asset. Robinson III's impact on the Michigan Wolverines basketball team extended beyond the stat sheet. His energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and his presence on the court provided a spark for the entire team. His ability to make game-changing plays and contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a key component of the Wolverines' success. His versatility and commitment to both ends of the court solidified his role as a vital contributor, leaving a lasting impact on the team's achievements.

Mitch McGary

Mitch McGary, a powerful and energetic center, provided the Michigan Wolverines basketball team with a dominant presence in the paint. His exceptional rebounding skills, interior scoring ability, and tenacious defense made him a force to be reckoned with. McGary was a relentless rebounder, often outhustling and outmuscling opponents for loose balls. His ability to control the boards gave the Wolverines a significant advantage on both ends of the court. In the 2012-2013 season, McGary averaged 7.5 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, but his impact extended far beyond the numbers. His physicality and toughness set the tone for the team, and his presence in the paint deterred opponents from attacking the basket. Beyond his rebounding and scoring ability, McGary was also a solid defender and passer. He was willing to sacrifice his body and do whatever it took to help the team win. His passion and intensity were contagious, and his presence on the court provided a spark for the entire team. McGary's impact on the Michigan Wolverines basketball team was immeasurable, and his contributions were essential to the team's success. His ability to control the boards, defend the paint, and inspire his teammates made him a valuable asset and a fan favorite.

Nik Stauskas

Nik Stauskas, a sharpshooting guard, brought a deadly outside threat to the Michigan Wolverines basketball team. His ability to knock down three-pointers with remarkable accuracy made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Stauskas possessed a quick release and a smooth shooting stroke, allowing him to score from anywhere beyond the arc. In the 2012-2013 season, Stauskas averaged 4.4 points per game, but his impact extended far beyond the numbers. His presence on the court stretched opposing defenses and created open lanes for his teammates to drive to the basket. Beyond his shooting ability, Stauskas was also a smart and unselfish player. He was willing to make the extra pass and do whatever it took to help the team win. His confidence and poise, especially for a freshman, were remarkable. Stauskas's impact on the Michigan Wolverines basketball team was significant, and his contributions were essential to the team's success. His ability to knock down shots, stretch the defense, and make smart plays made him a valuable asset and a key component of the Wolverines' offense. His presence on the court provided a sense of confidence and stability, solidifying his role as a vital contributor.

Key Reserves

Beyond the starting five, the Michigan Wolverines basketball team also had a strong supporting cast of key reserves who played important roles throughout the season. These players provided valuable depth, energy, and versatility, allowing the Wolverines to maintain a high level of play even when the starters were on the bench. Some notable reserves included Caris LeVert, Spike Albrecht, and Jon Horford. These players brought different strengths and skill sets to the team, providing Coach John Beilein with a variety of options and allowing him to adjust his lineups based on the situation. Their contributions were essential to the team's success, and they played a significant role in the Wolverines' run to the NCAA Championship game. In examining each player's contribution, it becomes clear how vital the reserves were to the team's overall success, providing crucial support and depth that allowed the Wolverines to compete at the highest level. Their ability to step up when called upon and contribute in meaningful ways made them an integral part of the team's success, highlighting the importance of a strong bench in college basketball.

Caris LeVert

Caris LeVert, a versatile guard, was a key reserve for the Michigan Wolverines basketball team, providing valuable scoring, playmaking, and defensive ability. His length, athleticism, and all-around skill set made him a valuable asset off the bench. LeVert was capable of scoring in a variety of ways, whether it was driving to the basket, knocking down jumpers, or creating his own shot off the dribble. He also possessed excellent court vision and passing skills, allowing him to set up his teammates for easy baskets. During the 2012-2013 season, LeVert averaged 2.3 points and 0.9 rebounds per game, but his impact extended far beyond the stat sheet. His versatility and willingness to do whatever it took to help the team win made him a valuable asset. LeVert's impact on the Michigan Wolverines basketball team was significant, and his contributions were essential to the team's success. His ability to score, create, and defend made him a valuable asset and a key component of the Wolverines' rotation. His presence on the court provided a sense of versatility and depth, solidifying his role as a vital contributor.

Spike Albrecht

Spike Albrecht, a fearless point guard, was a fan favorite for the Michigan Wolverines basketball team, known for his tenacity, ball-handling skills, and clutch performances. Despite his small stature, Albrecht played with a big heart and was never afraid to take on any challenge. His quickness, agility, and court vision made him a valuable asset off the bench. Albrecht was capable of penetrating the lane, creating opportunities for his teammates, and knocking down open shots. During the 2012-2013 season, Albrecht averaged 1.8 points and 0.9 assists per game, but his impact extended far beyond the stat sheet. His energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and his presence on the court provided a spark for the entire team. Albrecht's impact on the Michigan Wolverines basketball team was significant, and his contributions were essential to the team's success. His ability to handle the ball, create opportunities, and energize the team made him a valuable asset and a key component of the Wolverines' rotation.

Jon Horford

Jon Horford, a reliable big man, provided valuable depth and experience for the Michigan Wolverines basketball team. His size, strength, and rebounding ability made him a valuable asset in the frontcourt. Horford was capable of defending the paint, securing rebounds, and scoring around the basket. During the 2012-2013 season, Horford averaged 1.3 points and 1.5 rebounds per game, but his impact extended far beyond the stat sheet. His presence on the court provided a sense of stability and toughness, solidifying his role as a valuable contributor. Horford's impact on the Michigan Wolverines basketball team was significant, and his contributions were essential to the team's success. His ability to defend, rebound, and provide a physical presence made him a valuable asset and a key component of the Wolverines' rotation.

The Coaching Staff

Behind every great team is a great coaching staff, and the Michigan Wolverines basketball team was no exception. Head coach John Beilein, along with his assistants, deserves immense credit for guiding the Wolverines to their remarkable success in 2013. Beilein's strategic brilliance, player development skills, and ability to foster a positive team culture were instrumental in the team's accomplishments. His emphasis on ball movement, spacing, and shooting created a dynamic and efficient offense that was difficult for opponents to defend. Beyond his tactical acumen, Beilein was also a master motivator who knew how to get the best out of his players. He instilled a sense of confidence and belief in his team, empowering them to play with passion and determination. The coaching staff's impact on the Michigan Wolverines basketball team was immeasurable, and their leadership was essential to the team's success. Their ability to develop players, implement effective strategies, and foster a positive team environment made them an integral part of the Wolverines' memorable season. Their contributions extended far beyond the court, shaping the team's identity and instilling values that resonated throughout the program.

Final Thoughts

The 2013 Michigan Wolverines basketball team was a special group of players who captured the hearts of fans with their skill, determination, and teamwork. From Trey Burke's heroics to Mitch McGary's physicality, each player made a unique contribution to the team's success. While they ultimately fell short of winning the national championship, their journey to the title game was a testament to their talent and hard work. The memories and moments created by this team will forever be etched in the annals of Michigan basketball history. So, here's to the 2013 Wolverines – a team that will always be remembered for their unforgettable run and the joy they brought to fans across the nation. Guys, it was truly an epic season to remember!