On Thursday night the Michigan basketball team upset the #4 rated UCLA Bruins in a shocking surprise. Michigan had a horrible year last year, and John Beilein had a difficult time installing his offense and defense. His philosophies are to shoot a lot of 3s, and mix in a 1-3-1 zone defense. This year it looks like the returning players understand better what to do, and it was evident in the win against UCLA.
The team is not going to play for the Big Ten title this year, but they have some talent to be in the mix for a spot in the Big Dance. Manny Harris is the key. Through 4 games this year he is averaging 26 points per game, and even though the first 2 games were against weak competition, he is a player. The question is can he get a little help from his teammates. There will be times when he has an off night, or the opposition really keys on him, so guys like Deshawn Sims, Zack Gibson, and when the Big Ten season starts, Laval Lucas-Perry, need to be ready to add some scoring.
With Beilein recruiting players to fit his style, instead of 4 and 5 star recruits, the Michigan basketball team will continue to be a thorn in the sides of the teams in the Big Ten. They create matchup problems, and headaches for opposing coaches. Finally turning the basketball program around at Michigan will be a huge accomplishment for Beilein.
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