Louisville the final test for sharp-minded Wolverines, who will try for first title since '89

Michigan head coach John Beilein speaks to players against Syracuse during the first half of the NCAA Final Four tournament college basketball semifinal game Saturday, April 6, 2013, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) (The Associated Press)

Michigan head coach John Beilein watches as Trey Burke speaks during a news conference for their NCAA Final Four tournament college basketball game Sunday, April 7, 2013, in Atlanta. Michigan plays Louisville in the championship game on Monday. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara) (The Associated Press)

Virginia Commonwealth's press.

Syracuse's zone.

Michigan has handled every test so far. Now it's time for the final exam — a Louisville team that is the NCAA tournament's top overall seed.

Michigan is trying for its first national title since 1989, and Monday night will be its first appearance in the championship game since 1993, when the Fab Five lost to North Carolina.

The last two decades have been difficult for the Wolverines, but after sanctions and mediocrity, they're back in the spotlight at college basketball's signature event. Coach John Beilein's team is plenty talented, but point guard Trey Burke and the Wolverines have reached this point in large part because of their smarts — and their ability to adjust quickly to new challenges.