3 biggest questions facing Michigan Basketball this offseason

Can these guys develop?

Michigan basketball had the No. 1 recruiting class in the country in 2021 and that group helped the Wolverines reach the Sweet 16.

Yet, the true potential of this class was never going to be realized in the 2021-22 season. Diabate, Houstan, Frankie Collins, and Kobe Bufkin saw the floor the most and each was flawed. But their development as a group will be the biggest key to Michigan’s success next season.

The first question is whether or not Michigan believes in Collins at point guard? We’ll find out soon enough in the transfer portal. If Michigan lands a point guard like DeVante Jones or Mike Smith we’ll have our answer.

However, I expect Juwan to roll with Frankie and Dug McDaniel at point guard. I do expect a combo guard with some handling ability and someone who can shoot. In short, the closest thing they can find to Eli Brooks, which is going to be nearly impossible.

At some point, Michigan has to get away from transfer point guards and a top-50 recruit like Frankie seems to be the one to do it. However, his shooting ability is a big weakness. He has to improve from the free throw line and the 3-point line.

But the others need to take big steps forward too. Bufkin was disappointing this season, especially for a McDonald’s All-American but he could have a starting role next season if he keeps improving. Will Tschetter should also have a role next season since Michigan needs shooting.

The transfer portal is a great tool for roster building and filling needs. Yet, if Michigan is going to make strides next season, it’s all going to be about this sophomore class (to be) and how they develop headed into their second seasons as Wolverines.

As well as how many of them return.