Expectations for Michigan basketball

There is a nice free article on the Wolverine about Tommy Amaker and expectations for the upcoming basketball season. This begs the question: what are realistic expectations for the team this year?

Well, here's my thoughts. These predictions all assume near total health of the team. Last year I learned exactly what injuries can do to a squad as Lester Abram, Daniel Horton, Chris Hunter, and Graham Brown combined to miss over 60 games due to injury.

• 10+ wins in Big Ten regular season play
  
• 21+ wins overall heading into the Big Ten tournament
• an 8 or better seed in the NCAA tournament
• convincing victories over lesser foes at home
• a tough road win or two against a ranked foe
• RESPECTABILITY

Last year sucked big time. Amaker had lead Michigan from 11 wins to 17 wins to 23 wins including the NIT crown. The momentum was there for the team to have a great season. And then Lester Abram went down for the year with a shoulder injury. And then Chris Hunter started having injury problems. And then Daniel Horton hurt his knee. And then Graham Brown got hurt. And then Daniel Horton got suspended. And then Brent Petway got hurt. Well, you get the picture. Injuries suck. Watching 2 walkons on the court at almost all times was not fun.


But this year? Darn near everybody is back. Throw in the return of all previously injured players and 3 incoming freshmen and things are looking good. I'm certain this will be the most fun Michigan basketball season in quite some time.