Michigan Basketball: Projecting who stays, goes and transfers

Sure things/transfers

DeVante Jones could technically play another season if he wanted but he already tweeted out his thank you and he’s ready to test the professional waters. Eli Brooks played his fifth year and will walk away as one of the most beloved Wolverines ever. He’s a warrior.

Nunez could come back but he hasn’t played in four years and isn’t going to. At this point, he should have his degree which means it’s time to move on. If he wants to keep playing college basketball, he can transfer to a mid-major.

Either way, Nunez won’t be back next season, and neither will Zeb Jackson, who has already entered the transfer portal.

In terms of players we know will be on the roster: Michigan signed Jett Howard, Tarris Reed, Dug McDaniel, and Gregg Glenn. I’d also expect Jace Howard, Terrance Williams, Will Tschetter, Frankie Collins, and Kobe Bufkin to return.

There have been rumors about a player leaving via the portal (outside of Zeb) and it would be surprising if the Wolverines didn’t lose at least one player. It’s just the nature of the beast.

My prediction is going to be Isaiah Barnes. The 6-foot-6 wing from Oak Park, Illinois is a talented player with upside but he didn’t really seem to generate much positive buzz and if the Wolverines are going to add a transfer guard/wing (or two), it’s hard to see how Barnes will fit in.

Jace Howard already seems to be ahead of him in the rotation, likely due to his defensive prowess and unless he improves a lot, he would have a hard time finding minutes with Jett Howard, Terrance Williams, and potentially Caleb Houstan all in the mix at the three.

I know Will Tschetter didn’t play any this season too. But his shooting ability is talked about regularly and that’s going to get him on the floor. I could be totally wrong and Barnes might come back but if someone other than Zeb does transfer, my guess is Barnes.