TY LAWSON

North Carolina point guard Ty Lawson can't swish jump shots in his sleep but he does convert hundreds of shots while America is sleeping.

"My freshman year and last year I wasn't in the gym as much as I should have been," Lawson said. "So now sometimes I shoot at 2 o'clock in the morning. I just have more dedication than I've had in the past. When I first came to college I tried to rely only on my speed and my athletic ability. Coach WIlliams taught me how much more effect I could be if I improved my shooting ability."

Lawson's decision to remain in school instead of entering the NBA draft, coupled with a determination to make himself a better all-around player, has paid off. He enters tonight's national championship game against Michigan State as one of the country's most talked-about players.

"He's the best point guard in the country," Michigan State point guard Kalin Lucas said

Through his late-night shooting practices, Lawson has dramatically improved his aim. His overall shooting percentage has climbed to 54% and his three-point shooting efficiency has risen from 36% to 49% in the last year.

Walton said Lawson's strength is as noteworthy as his quickness, and his only thought on stopping him is "you have to make his shots tough, because if he gets an angle he's going to bulldoze in."

Lawson says he's a better all-around player this season.

"I'm more of a leader, and I'm not turning over the ball as much," he said.

Ty Lawson will be presented today with the Bob Cousy Award, given to the nation's top point guard.