Zachary Lyon:
Future150 Regional Analyst. Covering high and middle school basketball: NC, SC & VA
Ann Arbor, MI (Future150) -- The Big Dance is finally here and while everyone would like to cut down the nets, there can only be one champion. That being said, there is always the chance that the next season could be better than the last. With that in mind, Future150 would like to introduce "The Next Step", a segment dedicated to breaking down each program's recruiting class as they bow out of the tournament; because there's always next season.
Michigan won their play in game against Tulsa in the First Four but couldn't get pass the Fighting Irish. What's the next step for the Wolverines?
Coach John Beleine has a well rounded four man recruiting class headed to Ann Arbor that should be able to contribute immediately. Starting off with PG Xavier Simpson, who is an absolute play maker. Simpson can score from all three levels, and is a magician with the ball in his hands.
Joining Simpson in the backcourt will be SG Ibi Watson of Pickerington, Ohio. Watson is a very long two guard with a sweet stroke from beyond the arc. He is versatile enough to play the small forward spot as well. Watson may take more time than Simpson to get adjusted to the next level, but should be a nice scoring option for the Wolverines.
Looking into the frontcourt, Michigan has two centers in Jon Teske and Austin Davis that should help immediately on the glass and guarding the paint. Teske may be a bit more skilled offensively at this point, but they could become a deadly one-two punch for Coach Beleine down the road.
Look for Michigan to get even better next season, and have an oppurtunity to make a deeper run in the big dance.
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