Michigan Basketball: What people are saying about John Beilein

Mitch Albom

Mitch Albom is another Michigan legend and has been writing about Michigan sports since 1985. He’s also the guy who wrote The Five People You Meet In Heaven series and has earned more awards than most in the sports writing industry.

His words on why John left make perfect sense and yet it doesn’t soften the blow.

"From what I know, Beilein was tiring of this. It was wearing him out. So when a seemingly ideal situation for him arose — a young Cleveland NBA team, coming off a terrible season, low expectations, a high draft pick, an owner who clearly knows and admires Beilein — he jumped."

Mitch ended the article with a wise perspective and a heartfelt message.

"Beilein once told me when recruits asked if he’d coach at Michigan for their entire careers, he would say, “I plan to” but would always add, “Plans sometimes change.” This one changed big time. And it’s hard to fathom the Wolverines without their leader right now. But no reason to shout John Beilein out of town. Better to wish him luck on his dream, and watch him follow his heart. He did the same for a lot of young men in Ann Arbor, and they, and the team, were the better for it, while it lasted."