Michigan Basketball: Chaundee Brown not expected to return

Recently, it was thought that Chaundee Brown might return to Michigan basketball next season, but it appears that is no longer the case. 

It didn’t take long for Chaundee Brown to become a favorite of Michigan basketball fans this past season. He plays extremely hard, is unselfish, and is the kind of guy you enjoy rooting for.

Unfortunately, despite some optimism last week that Brown would take advantage of being able to play an extra season due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, it looks like he will move on to pursue professional basketball just as Mike Smith did earlier this week.

Chris Balas of The Wolverine was one who indicated Brown could return but in a new post today he teased this:

"“Michigan’s 2021-22 roster remains in flux, and there are several moves still to come that will determine the make-up of next season’s roster. What’s true one day might not be the next.”"

Balas also reported (subscription required) that a decision from Brown should come soon but that it’s not looking that he will return for another season with the Wolverines.

While that’s disappointing, it’s hard to blame Brown. He would have to stay in school for another year, instead of preparing for the NBA draft.

As with Smith, the chances of Brown getting drafted probably aren’t great. However, that doesn’t mean a pro career can’t happen.

Duncan Robinson wasn’t drafted either. But he dominated in the G-League and earned his spot. That same thing could happen for Brown or Smith.

And even if they don’t get a chance to play in the NBA or the G-League, they are each certainly good enough to play professionally overseas.

What it means for Michigan basketball

If Brown does leave, that would put the focus on Eli Brooks, Franz Wagner, and Hunter Dickinson. It seems likely that Dickinson will return, even if he declares for the draft, while Wagner is likely headed to the NBA, especially with him appearing as a lottery pick in mock drafts.

If Brooks came back, that would be huge for the Wolverines just to have a veteran presence in the backcourt. He can play some at point guard, but he could revise his role as the two-guard next to Zeb Jackson, Frankie Collins, or a possible transfer.

One thing to keep in mind is that unless there are other departures, the Wolverines would only have one spot left on its roster.

Brown, Brooks, Smith, and Austin Davis could choose to play an extra season without counting against the scholarship numbers, but if they all leave, U-M would only have one spot left.

It seems like point guard might be the best use of that, but that will depend on Brooks too. If he returns, Juwan Howard might feel good enough about him as insurance to roll with young guys at point guard.

At some point, the Wolverines will have to develop a point guard, and doing it in a year with Brooks playing the two could be the best time.

Now, we just have to find out if Eli returns or not.