Michigan Basketball: Shooting guard options for the 2019-20 season
Incoming Recruits
Prior to Beilein’s departure, Michigan’s 2020 class was solely comprised of 2 players, 4-star players Jalen Wilson and Cole Bajema. Unfortunately, once Beilein bolted for Cleveland, Wilson decided to de-commit and re-open his recruiting process. While Michigan basketball may still be in the mix, Wilson tweeted that he’ll be announcing his commitment live, doesn’t seem to bode well for the Wolverines.
Wednesday, June 12th, at 2pm I will be announcing my College Decision. I want to thank God, my family, and everyone who has been with me on my journey. 🙏🏽🙏🏽 #NoTalking
— jwill (@thejalenwilson) June 7, 2019
If by some chance that Wilson does end up re-committing to Michigan basketball, it would appear that he would be a shoo-in to start. Standing at 6’8, 215, Wilson would be able to provide the length and athleticism capable to play shooting guard, and can also space the floor with his elite three-point shooting, but also create his own shot, something that Michigan struggled mightily last season.
In the event that Wilson chooses UNC or Kansas, Cole Bajema could also compete for the job. Shortly after the hiring of Juwan Howard, Bajema re-affirmed his commitment, technically speaking, becoming Howard’s first ever signed recruit.
Bajema becomes a viable option for Howard, simply due to his capability to shoot the ball at a high level and due to his size at 6’7. At the same time, weighing in at 175lbs, Bajema’s raw frame and strength that has not arrived yet will be an issue against Big Ten opponents and above average Division 1 programs.
In all honesty, it seems more likely that Bajema will be redshirting than starting.
Another potential Michigan recruit would likely start at shooting guard is, in fact, Franz Wagner, brother of former Michigan star Moritz Wagner.
Wagner has played the last few years with Alba Berlin in the German Basketball Bundesliga and has been a rotation player for them, despite only being 17 years of age.
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Moe’s brother is listed at 6’6 190lbs, perfect size to either play the ‘2’ or the ‘3’. Much like his brother, Wagner is crafty offensively, being able to be efficient on all three levels in terms of scoring the basketball, and with the added experience of playing against grown men professionally, bodes well for Howard if Wagner chooses to come to Ann Arbor.