Michigan Basketball: 5 Keys to Winning the Big Ten

The Wolverines have been more than impressive this season, surprising a strong Big Ten by taking six games in the conference so far. With only three conference losses coming to Ohio State, Indiana and Iowa, Michigan is in prime position to steal the title right from under the classic powerhouses.

Ranked third in the conference as of now, only the Spartans and the Buckeyes hold positions over the Wolverines. With games left between both, Michigan still lies well within the realm of possibly claiming the conference championship.

While their maize uniforms may be blinding, this squad is full of NBA-caliber talent. They really have a better shot at upsetting the conference than many analysts give credit and should be a team to keep an eye on til March Madness.

We take a look at five keys to Big Ten title victory for the Wolverines as conference play nears its end over the course of the next month.

John Beilein

Heading up the Michigan basketball program for his fifth season, Beilein has consistently improved the Wolverines. He is a huge part of how this squad works and is integral to their success in the conference.

Going 36-44 in the Big Ten and 83-72 overall at the program, watching Beilein transform Michigan into a conference power has been more than fun. Two NCAA appearances and well on his way to a third, the Wolverines are not a team to be underestimated.

Beilein is, and will continue to be, the right man for the job up in Ann Arbor. His recruiting abilities along with his skill in molding players into consistent threats on the hardwood make him a key to Wolverine victory in the Big Ten. 

Taking Down Michigan State and Indiana

Near the beginning of conference play, Michigan was plagued with a close two-point loss to Indiana at Bloomington. The despairing fall to the Hoosiers was redeemed by a vibrant victory when the Wolverines took down their in-state rivals by a point at home.

Michigan's next two games after their most recent loss to Ohio State come at inopportune times as the blue and maize face off against Indiana at home and then take on the Spartans in East Lansing. These will be key matchups for the Wolverines if they want to have any shot at stealing the Big Ten this season.

Both games the first time around came down to less than one shot and round two will be huge conference matchups. Winning at Michigan State and at home against the Hoosiers is the next step towards a Big Ten regular season title, however, if Michigan can come through, they may have more than a legitimate shot.   

Trey Burke

The freshman guard out of Columbus, Ohio has made a giant impact on this season so far. The second leading scorer for the team and only in his first year at the program, Burke is a game-changer for Beilein and company.

Putting up a strong 14 points along with a team leading five assists per game, Burke's youth and talent make him a gigantic asset to Michigan. His continued performance on the court against Big Ten foes is crucial as squads will now be gunning to shut down the dangerous player.

Keep an eye on this big-time, NBA talent Wolverine as he works to move his team to the top of the conference for the first time in a while. 

Take Advantage of the Home Court

In the college basketball world, home court advantage is more important than many give credit. Winning on your own campus is not only thrilling, but can enliven a university more than an easy final exam can.

The Wolverines have fortunately slotted in some of their toughest remaining opponents at Ann Arbor such as Ohio State, Indiana and Illinois. Picking up wins over each of them, particularly the Buckeyes, is obviously a key to Michigan winning the Big Ten.

As of now, the Wolverines' 15 point loss to Ohio State is uninspiring, but Beilein's second chance to secure a win over one of the top squads in the nation won't be overlooked. All three games are things to keep an eye on as they come over the course of the next few weeks. 

Tim Hardaway, Jr.

The sophomore phenomena returned for his second season with a purpose, and that purpose was to make a difference. 

Hardaway, Jr. has done that and more so far this year. Leading the team in scoring with 15 points while placing second in assists at 2.4 per game, he is a threat to be reckoned with all over the court.

Easily talented enough to one day make it into the NBA, Hardaway, Jr. has put a lot into a program in hopes of an elusive Big Ten title. This season, however, could be the year that he leads his team not only deep into Big Dance, but also steals away a conference championship from the classic basketball powers.

Restoring the Wolverines to their former glory is well within the realm of possibility this season, and look for Hardaway, Jr. to be at the head of the charge.