Michigan Basketball: Predicting UM’s finish in 2020-21 Big Ten standings

Despite high profile wins, Michigan basketball didn’t finish out the season as a top performer in the Big Ten. This is where the Wolverines will finish in 2020-21.

Here we are, in the midst of a pandemic that caused the temporary termination of all activities. Michigan basketball was minutes away from kicking off their first Big Ten tournament game against a foe they had defeated twice during the season.

That coveted 20th win would have cemented the season as a glorious representation of what was to come under Michigan alum and now head coach, Juwan Howard.

As Zavier Simpson and his teammates warmed up, the Big Ten was shutting down operations, keeping in line with all the rest of the United States and the rest of the world.

As sad as that is, it’s comforting to see sports organizations finding was to – slowly and with significant restrictions – bring back athletic competition. Overseas, soccer teams are winning championships, and baseball is back in full swing.

Back in the U.S., professional sports have begun to form their seasons, and yet it doesn’t seem as though the colleges can afford to take the same safety measures – placing any chance of college football, basketball, et al., in danger. Outside of some of the power five schools, there isn’t enough money or power to quarantine student-athletes for an extended period.

There isn’t a fight island available for the Big Ten to facilitate a season.

And yet, there’s hope and optimism.

Assuming the safety measures are met, and NCAA basketball is allowed back on the court, here’s how it all plays out. Here’s where Michigan will rank in the Big Ten and where everyone else lands once the 2020-21 season is complete.