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3 thoughts on Olivier Nkamhoua’s commitment to Michigan Basketball

By Chris Peterson

Tennessee forward Olivier Nkamhoua (13) looks to pass while defended by Florida Atlantic University guard Brandon Weatherspoon (23) during a NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 game between Tennessee and FAU in Madison Square Garden, Thursday, March 23, 2023.Volsfau0323 0849
Tennessee forward Olivier Nkamhoua (13) looks to pass while defended by Florida Atlantic University guard Brandon Weatherspoon (23) during a NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 game between Tennessee and FAU in Madison Square Garden, Thursday, March 23, 2023.Volsfau0323 0849 /
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Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

The defense is just as important

It’s easy to look at a player’s scoring average or shooting percentage and think that tells the whole story. However, as Michigan basketball fans know well, there’s more to the game than being able to put the ball in the hoop.

Nkamhoua is a massive defensive upgrade and was a key part of an elite Tennessee defense. He’s got the ability to switch onto perimeter defenders, while also adding some rim protection.

Even though he’s best suited to play the four, Nkamhoua can play the five too, which could be important for a Wolverines team that’s a little short on big men.

All of a sudden, with Reed and Nkamhoua, Michigan basketball has one of the best defensive frontcourts in the Big Ten. Nimari Burnett is another elite defender and Dug McDaniel, if he can defend the way he did earlier last season, has lots of potential too.

Youssef Khayat also has the chance to be a plus defender. If he can find some consistency shooting the ball, Michigan could roll out a lineup of Reed, Nkamhoua, Khayat, Burnett, and Dug.

There could be some scoring limitations, sure. But defensively, there’s a lot of potential. It’s another reason why this move is such a big addition.

With his two-way impact, Nkamhoua can easily be an All-Big Ten caliber player next season and his impact will be felt on that end as much as anything.

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