Michigan Basketball: 2018-19 keys for the Wolverines at Iowa

By Adam Childs | Jan 31, 2019

ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 29: Zavier Simpson #3 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts after a three point basket next to Isaiah Livers #4 while playing the Ohio State Buckeyes at Crisler Arena on January 29, 2019 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan won the game 65-49. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

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ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN – JANUARY 29: Isaiah Livers #4 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts after a second-half three-point basket next to Jaedon LeDee #23 of the Ohio State Buckeyes at Crisler Arena on January 29, 2019 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan won the game 65-49. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

1. Control the pace

Michigan plays great defense and normally controls the pace of the game. They like to run their offense and work for open shots. Iowa, on the other hand, likes to get up and go. They average 82 points per game and likes to score in transition if possible. Michigan needs to control this and not let the Hawkeyes get out and run and score points in bunches.

The Wolverines have been very good and not letting teams do this. This was on full display in December when they limited a run and gun team in North Carolina to just 67 points. They controlled the pace in that game and completely took the Tar Heels out of their game. They need to do something similar to that on Friday. Iowa is not on North Carolina’s level but they can score with most any teams in the country.

The Wolverines don’t let teams speed them up very often but it has happened and being on the road could make that a factor also. Michigan needs to make sure they do not get baited into this and continues to play their game. If Michigan can do that they should be in great shape to beat the Hawkeyes. But if they let the Hawkeyes get up and go and get the crowd into the game it could turn into a tough game for the Wolverines. Control the pace and they can control the game.

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