John Beilein reminisces on Trey Burke’s historic Michigan Wolverines career: “It was fun to watch”

Описание: John Beilein reminisces on Trey Burke’s historic Michigan Wolverines career: “It was fun to watch”

John Beilein reminisced on coaching Trey Burke and when he realized how great the former Michigan Wolverines guard would be prior to his jersey tribute at the Crisler Center on Friday. “There were moments when he looked like a freshman and moments when he looked like a pro. It was fun to watch.” Michigan honored one of the most decorated players in program history as Burke’s jersey was raised to the rafters. Burke was recognized as the consensus 2013 National Player of the Year and Big Ten Player of the Year, and now he’s just the sixth former Michigan men’s basketball player to have his jersey honored. “I don't really know how to put this into words. I'm filled with joy to be able to be honored at such a great university,” Burke told the media. “It just brings back all the memories during my two years here. To be able to come back, get my jersey put into the rafters, I can't sit up here and say I never imagined it because I don't think you can do anything you don't imagine.” Burke’s illustrious career at Michigan was filled with iconic plays – from an unforgettable last-second game-tying shot to force overtime in a thrilling win over Kansas in the Sweet Sixteen to a game-clinching steal and score to defeat Michigan State in the final minute, a clutch block to beat rival Ohio State, and a remarkable run to the 2013 national championship game. Prior to his jersey being honored, Burke reminisced on his famous last-second shot in the win over Sweet Sixteen. “I just blacked out. I knew I had to somehow create space to get my shot off. I knew if I had a shot, it’s going to go in,” Burke explained. “I shot that shot with confidence. I encourage every kid out there, in those moments, to stay in that moment and enjoy it. I'm grateful I hit that shot, but there's just so much that went into me making that shot than it just going in.” After winning 2012 Big Ten Freshman of the Year, Burke returned for his sophomore year with hopes of making history. The Michigan guard did just that – breaking the school single-season assist record, becoming the first player in program history to sweep the National Player of the Year honors, and guiding the Wolverines to the Final Four for the first time in 20 years. Burke was leaning towards declaring for the NBA Draft before opting to come back for his sophomore season. “I needed to reconsider because I was out the door. It was always my dream to play in the NBA, just like any other kid,” Burke told the media. “I started learning more of the business side of it and I made one of, if not the best decision in my life to come back for my second year. We made some magical memories. We fell a little short but I still think we’re champions.” From an under-the-radar recruit to a rising star, and finally developing into the best player in the country, his career at Michigan will never be forgotten. Burke was truly one of the greatest players in school history and his jersey will be immortalized forever alongside fellow Michigan legends Cazzie Russell, Rudy Tomjanovich, Phil Hubbard, Glen Rice and Bill Buntin. Burke was later asked what he wants fans to remember most when they see his jersey hang in the rafters. “I want them to think about not only the basketball player, but the person and family man that I am,” Burke explained. “I had to really work hard for it. I want them to think about the mindset that I carried every day on that court. I want them to think about me as a winner, as someone who really helped change and turn this program back around to relevance.”

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