Michigan Basketball: 3 things we learned vs Texas Southern

Mar 20, 2021; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Michigan Wolverines forward Austin Davis (51) reacts as he celebrates with teammates after defeating the Texas Southern Tigers in the first round of the 2021 NCAA Tournament at Mackey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Bickel-USA TODAY Sports /

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Michigan needs more from Franz

Franz Wagner had a really good game against Texas Southern. He played outstanding defense, dished out six assists, had nine points and grabbed nine rebounds.

But, sort of like with Chaundee Brown, unless he’s more aggressive and plays some of his best basketball, it will be hard for Michigan basketball to move past the Sweet 16.

Wagner just needs to shoot the ball more than seven times. He only attempted three 3-point shots and with Livers not out there, he has to help space the floor. Mike Smith and Eli Brooks shot an average of six 3-pointers. I’d rather see Wagner taking some of those attempts.

Monday’s game against LSU will be a huge test for Wagner and the Wolverines. I’ve been saying that Michigan is going to need a breakout performance from Wagner this tournament and even though he was really effective on Saturday, Wagner didn’t deliver that.

It was also his first NCAA Tournament game so we’ll see what he brings on Monday night in a game that really could go either way.

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