2013-2014 Big Ten Basketball Preview: #2 Michigan Wolverines

Last Season: Michigan made a memorable run all the way to the NCAA Championship game as one of the most talented #4 seeds of all time. The team was led by National Player of the Year candidate Trey Burke, and 3-time all Big-Ten player Tim Hardaway Jr. Both were drafted in the first round of the NBA draft, with Burke going in the lottery (As a PSU fan, this makes me so sad). Mitch McGary finally made some progress in staying out of foul trouble near the end of last year, and he was what seemed to propel Michigan over the hump during their tournament run.

Departures: Trey Burke, Tim Hardaway Jr.

Returning Players: Glenn Robinson III, Mitch McGary, Nik Stauskas, Spike Albrecht, Jordan Morgan, Jon Horford, Caris LeVert

Newcomers: Derrick Walton, Zak Irvin, Mark Donnal

What to Expect: Has there ever been a team that loses two first round draft picks, and then has two projected lottery picks, and maybe the best 3 point shooter in college basketball (Nik Stauskas: Must watch) on their team the next year. Probably not, and that is what Michigan has this year. Glenn Robinson III is a ridiculously talented wing who plays well above the rim. He likely could have gone in the lottery last year, but he decided to return, and most Mock Drafts have him in the top 10 for next year. Mitch McGary was extremely hyped last year, and during the regular season he looked great when he wasn't on the bench in foul trouble. As I mentioned, once he figured that out, Michigan took their game to the next level. His combination of energy, size, and athleticism is very rare and will have many teams vying to draft him in June. Besides Stauskas, McGary, and Robinson III, Caris Levert and Spike Albrecht or Derrick Walton should round out the starting lineup. Levert is inexplicably nicknamed "Baby Durant," and Albrecht endeared himself to us with his twitter pursuit of Kate Upton (see below). Whether or not Albrecht is able to adequately replace some of Burke's production remains to be seen, with highly sought after recruit Derrick Walton vying for the starting spot as well. Michigan also adds top 30 recruit Zak Irvin to provide depth at the forward spot.

Storyline to Watch: Has McGary actually put his foul trouble behind him.? It would seem so, but if he struggles with that again, Michigan could lose a few games you wouldn't expect them to.

Final Prediction: 25-5 (14-4)
Tons of talent and a super trio of sophomores. This team will help Ann Arbor forget about Al Borges' offense, at least I hope so... for their sake.