The Michigan Wolverines defeated Eastern Michigan 87-62 on Sunday at Crisler Center during their first exhibition game of the season, showcasing standout performances from newcomers Moustapha Thiam and Quinn Costello.
Defensive Impact From Moustapha Thiam
Following the departure of an intimidating frontcourt featuring Aday Mara and Morez Johnson Jr., the Wolverines added Moustapha Thiam to anchor the paint. Thiam transferred to Michigan after leading the Big 12 in blocks while at UCF and recording 50 blocks last season at Cincinnati. During Sunday’s matchup against Eastern Michigan, Thiam tallied 11 points and five rebounds alongside four blocked shots. According to Sports Illustrated, Thiam experienced early difficulties with the pick-and-roll before settling into the contest.
Estrella and Jalen Reed each blocked a shot during the exhibition. The collective defensive presence indicates that Michigan’s interior defense will remain formidable this season. Thiam’s ability to contest shots immediately addressed questions surrounding the team’s rim protection.
Starting Role for Ricky Liburd
Roddy Gayle Jr. warmed up with the team prior to tipoff but did not play, leaving Ricky Liburd to draw the start at wing. Liburd missed the Wolverines’ foreign tour and all associated exhibition games due to an injury sustained overseas. He played 10 minutes exclusively in the first half, finishing with two points, three rebounds, and one steal before remaining on the bench for the entire second half.
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Freshman Joseph Hartman saw extended playing time after halftime, contributing 10 points and a steal. Assuming Gayle returns to full health, analysts project Liburd will transition into a significant bench rotation role.
Freshman Three-Point Shooting
Trey McKenney led all scorers with 21 points, shooting 3-of-7 from beyond the arc. Point guard Elliot Cadeau also added a three-pointer as part of the offensive output. However, freshman Quinn Costello emerged as a primary perimeter threat, scoring 16 points and sinking 4-of-8 three-point attempts.
Costello entered the program as the team’s highest-rated recruit prior to Brandon McCoy Jr.’s signing. Alongside his four triples, Costello grabbed five rebounds during his Crisler Center debut. Reports indicate that while Costello requires physical development to bolster his interior game, his outside shooting ability is already established.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Michigan Wolverines play Eastern Michigan?
The teams played on Sunday at Crisler Center for the first exhibition game of the season, as reported by Sports Illustrated.
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Who led Michigan in scoring during the exhibition game?
Trey McKenney led the Wolverines with 21 points, which included three made three-pointers.
Why did Ricky Liburd start instead of Roddy Gayle Jr.?
Roddy Gayle Jr. sat out the game despite warming up with the team, allowing Ricky Liburd to make his first start after recovering from an injury sustained during the team’s foreign tour.
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