From Michigan Wolverines On SI · · 1m 40s
Michigan Basketball's 3 Good, 3 Bad for 2026-27 Season
Michigan basketball's preseason shows promise with strong guard pairing and rebounding, but 3-point shooting and rebounding concerns loom.
In brief
Michigan basketball's preseason shows promise with strong guard pairing and rebounding, but 3-point shooting and rebounding concerns loom. Michigan's 2026-27 basketball season starts with a 2-1 exhibition record, highlighting guard duo Trey McKenney and Elliot Cadeau's potential but also 3-point shooting and…
Preseason Start
Michigan basketball's regular season begins Monday, Nov. 2 after three exhibition games.
Exhibition Record
Michigan went 2-1 in exhibition games, beating Eastern Michigan and Oregon State before losing to Houston.
Trey McKenney/Elliot Cadeau Pairing
McKenney scored 21 points against Eastern Michigan, Cadeau had 27 points against Oregon State.
Moustapha Thiam Excitement
Thiam, a Cincinnati transfer, will be Michigan's best rebounder and double-doubled against Oregon State.
Roddy Gayle Jr. Impact
Gayle Jr. scored 14 points against Houston with 2-of-5 three-pointers after being cleared to play.
3-Point Shooting Concern
Michigan shot 25% and 27% from three against Oregon State and Houston after 39% against Eastern Michigan.
Rebounding Woes
Michigan rebounded +3 against Eastern Michigan but -6 and -7 against Oregon State and Houston.
Foul Issues Carry Over
McKenney fouled out against Oregon State, Cadeau fouled out twice, and Estrella had four fouls against Houston.
Key to Success
Keeping Thiam healthy and out of foul trouble is critical for Michigan's 2026-27 season.
Team Strategy Shift
Michigan will rely on Thiam and Estrella for rebounding, with Reed or Costello filling in at the '4'.
Season Impact
Michigan's 2026-27 season hinges on improving 3-point shooting and rebounding after preseason struggles.
What matters most
Michigan's 2026-27 basketball season starts with a 2-1 exhibition record, highlighting guard duo Trey McKenney and Elliot Cadeau's potential but also 3-point shooting and rebounding challenges.
