ANN ARBOR -- A freshman has just allowed a basket from close range, and Zavier Simpson wants an explanation. There's a brief exchange before Simpson, growing more frustrated, gets to the point: "Did you touch him?" he asks.
The freshman's response is a too long-winded, too explanatory. Simpson repeats the question, a little louder: "Did you touch him?" At this point, the answer is going to be wrong no matter what. The freshman says, "Yes."
"No you didn't," Simpson barks. "Wall up on him and be strong."
The returning players from last year's team know Michigan won 33 games and reached the national championship by playing suffocating defense.