College Basketball Preview: 15. Michigan Wolverines

Hardaway is a real talent and will have such a good season that the Wolverines will not miss Morris.

15. Michigan Wolverines Key Returnees: G/F Tim Hardaway Jr., C Jordan Morgan, G Zach Novak
G Stu Douglass- Senior
G Zach Novak- Senior
F Tim Hardaway Jr.- Sophomore
F Evan Smotrycz- Sophomore
C Jordan Morgan- Sophomore
Sixth- Trey Burke- Freshman
Top Recruit: Trey Burke
John Bellien came out of now where to lead the Wolverines to a 21-14 mark and a NCAA appearance in what was expected to be a rebuilding year for Michigan. Now with four starters back opponents will have their eyes on the Wolverines more. Tim Hardaway Jr. leads the returners and the guard/forward will help soften the loss of leading scorer Darius Morris who ditched early to the NBA. The backcourt will still be solid without Morris thanks to the return of Zach Novak a psychical defender and Stu Douglass who can shoot. Douglass will have to battle freshmen Trey Burke and Carlton Brundidge for the starting point guard spot but may have the edge thanks to experience. Matt Vogrich is a sniper that should get more minutes with the loss of Morris. The frontcourt isn't as experienced but may be better up front but doesn't have depth. Center Jordan Morgan isn't huge but he has the agility and smarts to become an effective center. Evan Smotrcyz isn't flashy but he can play strong minutes and will be a piece to the puzzles for the squad. Sophomores Jon Horford and Colton Christian should also get some playing time.
Bottom Line: The Wolverines couldn't handle high expectations in 2009-2010 but this season will go differently.