Michigan Basketball: Evaluating Franz Wagner in the Battle 4 Atlantis

Quarter-Final vs. Iowa State – 23 MINS, 6 PTS, 3 REBS, 1 AST, 1 BLK

Following the victory against the Cyclones, Wagner spoke with The Detroit News regarding his debut, saying:

"“I think I came in with a lot of energy. I think I can play better defense, but offensively I just try to do my job and play within the game, within the pace of the game. I think we played good offensively as a team, but defensively I think I can do a better job.”"

Many did not know what to expect in Wagner’s debut as a Wolverine. With the factor of ‘rust’ coming off of an injury being a question mark, not to mention his first legitimate game in the NCAA, Howard instantly inserted Wagner into the starting lineup, replacing the 6’8 combo guard/wing, in favor of sophomore Adrien Nunez.

Ultimately, the most notable part of Franz Wagner’s debut was his first shot of his Michigan career.

Wagner was able to showcase the ‘Wagner Family Touch’ from behind the arc, drilling a three from the corner for his first-ever points as a Wolverine.

Wagner did it once again, drilling another three from downtown later on in the quarter.

Diagnosis: The rust was clearly there for Wagner in his first game, fouling out in only 23 minutes, however, there were a lot of positives from his performance, primarily being his smooth jumper from a technical perspective, with a beautiful stroke and great mechanics.