Michigan Basketball: 3 things we learned from a huge win at MSG

Johns has sparked this revival

Simpson was huge for Michigan basketball in the win over Rutgers, however, it’s hard to say that anyone on the floor played better than Brandon Johns.

The big man who has been starting for Livers is finally starting to realize his potential and the East Lansing product was a force at both ends of the floor Saturday scoring 20 points, grabbing seven rebounds, blocking a shot and grabbing two steals.

Johns was the only Wolverine to attempt 10 shots or more and he finished 7-of-13 from the field, as well as 4-of-7 from 3-point range including a couple of huge makes early in the game that set the tone.

While it has taken some time, Johns is finally turning into that stretch-4 you always envisioned he could be and man, if he’s knocking down shots and scoring 18 a game as he has over the past two, the Wolverines are going to be tough to beat.

It also makes you wonder what happens when Livers returns. If Johns keeps this up, Michigan will be in a similar situation to what it was in last year with Charles Matthews and Livers. Essentially, the team will have six starters, which isn’t a bad thing at all.

You also wonder if, in certain situations, you might see a lineup with Johns, Simpson, Livers, Wagner and Teske. That’s a group with incredible size, shooting ability and athleticism and it might be fun to see what happens.