Michigan Wolverines: A Basketball Legacy
The University of Michigan is primarily recognized for its football program, yet it also boasts one of the finest college basketball teams in the nation. The Wolverines frequently contend for the Big Ten title, having secured 15 division championships along with a prestigious national championship. They have appeared in the championship game four times, two of which were forfeited due to the program’s notorious scandal involving players receiving financial benefits from a booster. These instances marred an otherwise successful track record for the program.
Talented Players Shaping Success
Statistics reveal that the Wolverines are a formidable presence in basketball, reinforced by the numerous exceptional players who have participated in the program. Overall, 77 players have been selected in the NBA Draft, including four standout players highlighted below.
1. F Chris Webber
Chris Webber stands out as the greatest Wolverine to ever reach the NBA. After just two seasons at Michigan, his draft prospects soared, leading to the Orlando Magic selecting him first overall in the 1993 NBA Draft. Webber was quickly traded to the Golden State Warriors, where he won the Rookie of the Year Award, averaging 17.5 points and 9.1 rebounds per game.
2. F Rudy Tomjanovich
Rudy Tomjanovich continued the Wolverines’ legacy of outstanding forwards. The 6’8″ player spent three seasons with the team, culminating in a remarkable junior year, where he averaged 30.1 points and 15.7 rebounds per game. Known for his versatility, he was drafted second overall by the San Diego Rockets in 1970, completing an impressive collegiate career.
3. F Glen Rice
Though Glen Rice may not have matched Tomjanovich’s statistics, his contributions were pivotal to the Wolverines’ national title. As a senior, he led the Big Ten with an average of 25.6 points per game and had a stellar game in the championship against Seton Hall, scoring 31 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. He was selected fourth overall by the Miami Heat in the 1989 Draft.
4. F Cazzie Russell
Cazzie Russell also enjoyed an outstanding career at Michigan, averaging over 24 points in each of his three seasons while earning All-American honors. He was chosen first overall by the New York Knicks in the 1966 Draft and went on to have a solid professional career, making an All-Star team and consistently scoring in double digits.
5. F Juwan Howard
Juwan Howard, like Russell, had a notable career, playing 19 seasons in the NBA. He made one All-Star team and an All-NBA team in the same year, surpassing Russell’s achievements. In addition to his scoring ability, Howard provided crucial rebounding and passing skills, averaging over three assists for six seasons. He later had a successful coaching stint at Michigan, leading the team to two NCAA tournaments and securing a Big Ten championship in 2020-21.
Modern Wolverines in the NBA
The Wolverines continue to produce top-notch NBA talent, including players like Franz Wagner, Jordan Poole, and Caris LeVert, upholding Michigan’s rich tradition of exceptional basketball performance and dedication on the court.
