After 209 days away from the court, the Michigan Wolverines are finally back in action as they prepare to take on the Oakland Golden Grizzlies. There is a significant talent gap between these two teams, and Michigan returns key guards Elliot Cadeau, Trey McKenney and Roddy Gayle Jr in hopes of winning another national championship. Although Dusty May is no longer leading the program, new head coach Mike Boynton was part of last season’s championship staff and is familiar with Michigan’s system and style of play. That familiarity should help make the transition smoother as the Wolverines begin to defend their title.
Oakland returns a few players from last season, including Nassim Mashhour, Warren Marshall IV and William Kassi. However, head coach Greg Kampe has acknowledged that the team has spent more time working on its defense than its offense, which could be a problem against a much more talented Michigan squad. Michigan has the backcourt advantage with its ability to control the pace and create offense, while newcomers Moustapha Thiam and J.P. Estrella adds size and rebounding potential to the frontcourt. Although it can be difficult to predict how teams will look in their season opener, Michigan has the talent, depth and home-court advantage to control this matchup. I expect the Wolverines to dominate on both ends of the floor and earn a convincing win on opening night.
Oakland vs Michigan prediction: Michigan Wolverines -27.5 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number or better.
