Michigan Basketball: Franz Wagner continues to ascend as a freshman

Franz Wagner continues to impress in his freshman campaign with the Michigan basketball program.

Franz Wagner has been the most consistent player for the Wolverines over the past three weeks. After missing the first four games of the season, Franz has shown the Michigan basketball faithful why he was a prized recruit. He has acclimated to the college game and only scratched the surface of his full potential.

The Wolverines had a tough week with the losses against Wisconsin and Ohio State but you cannot blame the talented freshman from Germany. He played arguably his two best games as a Michigan basketball player and earned his 3rd Big Ten Freshman of the Week honor.

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Wagner averaged 17.5 ppg and was able to get his first double-double of the season on the road against the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Franz didn’t just have one good week. Over his last 7 games, in which the team has gone 5-2, Wagner has averaged 14 ppg and 7.1 rpg. He has become a go-to scoring option with Livers still not fully healthy.

Wagner has been doing everything for the Wolverines. He has been a stout defender all season long and has a nose for the basketball. When there are loose balls, he seems to find them.

He has great length and quick feet that make it hard for the opponent to get around him. I believe most fans were excited about his offensive potential but he is proving very capable on the defensive end of the floor.

As the season has progressed, so has Wagner’s offensive game. At the beginning of the season, he was working his way into game shape coming off of a wrist injury and seemed a little timid. He has shown, especially over the past five games, that he can score from all three levels on the court.

Franz has the ability to get to any place on the court and score. He has a variety of moves when he gets around the basket that keeps the defense guessing. He also shoots the 3-ball at a 31 percent clip. His offensive game is more refined than a typical freshman because of his time playing for Alba Berlin.

With the health of Isaiah Livers in question, Franz has put himself in a great position to get more looks offensively. He is a very important piece for this Michigan squad that is looking to make noise in the tournament.

Franz Wagner’s freshman season has seen a lot of growth, let’s hope that doesn’t stop.