Michigan Basketball: D.J. Wilson made a mistake by staying in NBA draft
D.J. Wilson, the now former Michigan basketball player, may regret choosing to keep his name in the 2017 NBA draft.
No matter what happened, Wednesday was going to be a big day for Michigan basketball. By 11:59 p.m., the Wolverines would know the fate of D.J. Wilson and Moe Wagner, one way or the other.
Related Story: What it means for Michigan basketball to get Moe Wagner back
Yet, in the end, the two didn’t take long to announce their decisions. Wagner would go first, letting Michigan basketball know he would be back for another season.
Then, word came from Wilson that the redshirt sophomore was keeping his name in the draft and it was what most thought all along, one back and one gone. Not bad, but not great either.
— d.j. wilson (@Lanky_Smoove) May 24, 2017
While the reaction to Wagner returning was jubilation, it was no shock when Wilson decided to go. The 6-10 forward has had higher stock and from day one, seemed more likely to head to the NBA.
Lanky Sooth has all the potential in the world and that’s why even though his stock has dipped a little bit, there is still a good chance he will make the first round. However, even if he does, this decision, feels like a mistake.
Michigan Wolverines Basketball
Michigan basketball obviously would have benefited from his return. And with he and Wagner both in the fold, the Wolverines could have been a serious contender, both in the Big Ten and beyond.
Next season isn’t Wilson’s first concern and it shouldn’t be. Basketball is his profession, but even in that respect, it might have been wiser to play another year at UM.
Wilson was good this season, scoring 11 points and shooting 37 percent from 3-point range. He also averaged 1.5 blocks, 5.3 rebounds and had an overall shooting percentage of 53.8.
Consider, playing a larger role next season, if he upped his scoring average to 15, becoming a truly elite player at both ends, for a full season like he was down the stretch.
Had Wilson done that, not only could Michigan contend, he could have wound up in the draft lottery next season.
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Hopefully, Wilson hears his name called in the first 30 picks when the draft rolls around, because if not, it will be even harder to ignore the what ifs.