Breaking Down Michigan Basketball’s Clutch Play, Danny Wolf’s Challenges, and Indiana’s Potential Move for May
On the latest episode of The Michigan Basketball Insider, Tim McCormick (@TimMcCormick40) and I took a deep dive into the Wolverines’ improved late-game performance, analyzed how opposing teams are adjusting their defensive schemes to limit Danny Wolf’s efficiency, and tackled an intriguing hypothetical—what if Indiana made a play for May?
Michigan has been through a roller-coaster season, but recent performances suggest they’re starting to turn a corner, especially in clutch situations. With conference play heating up, every possession matters, and Michigan’s newfound poise late in games could be the key to securing crucial wins down the stretch.
Michigan’s Improved Play in the Clutch
For much of the season, Michigan struggled to close out games, often faltering in the final five minutes. However, in recent weeks, they’ve looked much more composed in tight situations.
What’s Changed?
- Better Shot Selection
- Earlier in the season, Michigan often settled for low-percentage jumpers or forced contested shots in late-game situations. Recently, they’ve been more intentional about attacking the rim, leading to higher-percentage looks or trips to the free-throw line.
- Stronger Defensive Execution
- The Wolverines have tightened up their late-game defense, focusing on switching effectively, contesting shots, and avoiding unnecessary fouls. This has prevented opponents from scoring easy baskets in crunch time.
- Increased Confidence from Young Players
- Young players who were once hesitant in key moments are now playing with more poise and confidence. Their ability to handle pressure situations has been a key factor in Michigan’s improved execution.
- Leadership Stepping Up
- Veteran players are making smarter decisions with the ball and ensuring Michigan stays organized offensively in the final minutes. Instead of panicking under pressure, they are sticking to their sets and making the right reads.
Michigan’s newfound ability to close out games will be crucial in the Big Ten, where games often come down to the final few possessions. If they continue this trend, they could become a dangerous team heading into the postseason.
How Opposing Teams Are Limiting Danny Wolf’s Efficiency
Danny Wolf has been a key offensive weapon for Michigan, but teams are starting to game-plan specifically to neutralize his effectiveness. Here’s what we’ve observed:
1. Increased Physicality in the Post
- Defenders are playing more physically against Wolf, using their bodies to push him off his spots before he can establish deep post position.
- Teams are also fronting him in the post and sending weak-side help to prevent easy entry passes.
2. Forcing Him to Put the Ball on the Floor
- Wolf is most effective when he catches the ball in rhythm and can shoot quickly. Defenders are now closing out aggressively, forcing him to put the ball on the floor, which has led to an increase in turnovers and difficult shots.
3. Mixing Up Defenses
- Teams are using different defensive looks, including occasional zone defenses to take away his ability to find mismatches. By disrupting the flow of Michigan’s offense, they’re making it harder for Wolf to get into a comfortable scoring rhythm.
4. Targeting Him Defensively
- Some teams are looking to attack Wolf on the defensive end, especially in pick-and-roll situations where his lateral quickness can be tested. This forces Michigan to decide whether to keep him on the floor for his offense or sacrifice some size for better defensive matchups.
Despite these challenges, Wolf remains a critical piece of Michigan’s offense. The key for him will be to adjust to the added defensive attention by improving his decision-making under pressure and finding ways to be effective even when his scoring opportunities are limited.
What If Indiana Made a Play for May?
One of the most interesting discussions on The Michigan Basketball Insider was the hypothetical scenario of Indiana making a move for May.
The Hoosiers have had an up-and-down season, and there’s been speculation that they could look to shake things up in the offseason. But would making a play for May be the right move?
Why Indiana Would Consider It
- Scoring Struggles
- Indiana has struggled to generate consistent offense, particularly in half-court sets. May’s ability to create his own shot and space the floor would immediately make him a valuable addition.
- Backcourt Needs
- The Hoosiers need a dynamic playmaker in the backcourt who can take some pressure off their primary ball handlers. May could fill that role while also providing outside shooting.
- Defensive Versatility
- While May is not known as an elite defender, he has the athleticism and length to improve under the right system. Indiana’s coaching staff could potentially help him develop into a more complete player.
Would It Be the Right Fit?
While May could help Indiana in several key areas, the fit isn’t perfect. There are questions about:
- How he would adjust to playing in a new system
- Whether he would thrive in Indiana’s current offensive scheme
- How much of an upgrade he would truly provide
Ultimately, the idea of Indiana making a play for May is intriguing, but it’s not a guaranteed game-changer. However, if the Hoosiers feel that he could elevate their offense, it’s a move they might at least explore.
Final Thoughts: Michigan’s Trajectory and the Road Ahead
Michigan’s improvement in clutch situations has been one of the biggest positive takeaways from the last few weeks. If they can continue this trend, they could make a strong push toward the postseason.
Meanwhile, Danny Wolf’s offensive adjustments will be something to watch as teams continue to throw new defensive looks at him. If he can adapt and find new ways to be effective, Michigan’s offense will be that much stronger.
And as for the Indiana-May discussion, it’s a fun hypothetical—but one that raises real questions about what moves teams might consider in the ever-changing college basketball landscape.
With the season entering its most critical stretch, Michigan will need to keep building on their momentum and proving that their late-game success isn’t just a fluke, but a real sign of growth.
Be sure to tune into The Michigan Basketball Insider for more in-depth analysis, game breakdowns, and insider insights as the season unfolds.