Why it’s a big weekend for Michigan Basketball with Olivier Nkamhoua

When it comes to Olivier Nkamhoua, here’s why it’s a really important weekend for Michigan basketball. 

The transfer portal recruitment of former Tennessee forward Olivier Nkamhou has gone on longer than expected, especially since Michigan basketball was once viewed as the favorite.

However, Nkamhou wanted to take his time and explore professional basketball. He declared for the NBA draft but wasn’t invited to the combine and seems headed back to college.

We know that because Nkamhou has scheduled official visits to see Michigan basketball and West Virginia. The Mountaineers are a team to worry about in the transfer portal. They aren’t afraid to throw NIL around and we know the Wolverines are a little behind in that area.

That’s why this weekend is critical for Michigan basketball. There’s not much the Wolverines can do, but they will have to wait as the Mountaineers host Nkamhou for an official visit.

West Virginia has been stellar at not letting recruits leave without commitments. Michigan basketball still feels like the favorite. At least, the Wolverines feel good about where they stand. Even college hoops analyst, Trilly Donovan said he views U-M as the slight leader.

However, this weekend could change that.

Michigan needs to make it through the weekend in the mix

One thing that benefits Michigan basketball is that the Wolverines have the role available to showcase Nkamhou. With Caleb Love gone, Nkamhou would have the best scoring average of any player on the team from last season and he would have a high-usage role.

The Wolverines need a transfer guard/wing too to replace Love and there are a couple of options on the board. That needs to be a high-usage player too, but after seeing how Juwan Howard has helped the NBA draft stock of others if Nkamhou wants to get the best pro contract possible, Michigan basketball seems like the best fit.

Hopefully, Michigan can be competitive in the NIL space, because the Wolverines desperately need Nkamhou, who would be a huge upgrade at the four and would add a much-needed NBA-level talent.

If Nkamhou doesn’t commit this weekend and takes his visit to Michigan next weekend, then I’ll feel good about where things stand. But we have to get through the next few days first.