“I think it makes both of us as teams understand if we have a chance to win, we’ve got to play every possession on the defensive end and rebound,” Krzyzewski said. “Although we play our defense in a little bit different manner, I think the motivation to play it, the motivation to rebound is the same.”

Krzyzewski has talked often about the way this Duke came together this season, with a chemistry he has rarely seen during his coaching career. Much of that can be attributed to keeping a core group of players together for more than one year.

“It’s definitely helped our team this season,” junior forward Kyle Singler said. “We’ve won some close games because of the bond that we have. We’ve gone through a lot of experiences together. It’s more of a friendship. You’re willing to do extra to help the team win.”

Michigan State, known for its winning formula of hustle, rebounding and simply outworking the opponent, has taken it all to a new level. The Spartans have overcome adversity and injuries, especially the blow of losing point guard Kalin Lucas last week.

“When you lose a player like Kalin, you come together,” sophomore forward Draymond Green said. “We knew when he went down we had to come together, but it really solidified it. Kalin can carry a team, but without him we have to do it collectively.”

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And despite terrific players like Hayward, Matt Howard and Shelvin Mack, the Butler Bulldogs are the very definition of a team. That will be on display throughout the Final Four.

“I like how we all get along,” said Butler guard Ronald Nored. “We’re all friends. This is our second year together, which is really unique. Not a lot of teams bring everybody back.”

West Virginia’s Butler was reminded Thursday that this is being billed as team event. His reaction?

“That’s their opinion,” Butler said. “We’ve got some great players in this Final Four. We’ve just got to play our game, do what we do, and just go out and win without stars.”

He could’ve just pointed to his shirt. The motto says it all.

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