GO BLUE HOOPS Ep 32: Michigan Basketball Next Breakout Star? Ricky Liburd Speaks + Morez Johnson Jr analysis + New assistant Mody Maor

From LSU to Michigan: The Jalen Reed Interview. Go Blue Hoops Ep 34

Michigan basketball still has roster decisions to make — and the next scholarship move could shape Dusty May’s entire season. Tim McCormick breaks down how Michigan should approach its remaining roster spots, what the Wolverines still need, and why the next addition could be more important than fans realize.Plus, new Michigan transfer Jalen Reed joins GO BLUE HOOPS for an exclusive interview discussing injury recovery, resilience, his game, and why he believes Michigan is built for where he wants to go next.This episode is presented by The Leaders and Best at  @MichiganMedicine  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCfp5MBK2IC90Bdm5IQUJvYw]. There is a difference between and answer and Michigan Answer. To find your Michigan Answer visit www.michigananswers.orgHere are your chapter time stamps & titles:[00:00] – Tim kicks off episode 34 with a salute to Michigan Medicine & introduces an exclusive interview with incoming 6'10" transfer Jalen Reed.[01:55] – NBA Draft Combine Wrap-Up: The May 27th DeadlineTim breaks down the NBA Draft Combine, detailing the high pressure testing, psychological profiling, & draft positioning metrics.[03:34] – The Michigan Wave: Three Wolverines Projected in the Top 20 - An analysis of the surging NBA stock of Michigan's championship trio[04:54] – Yaxel Lenderborg's "Three and D" NBA Readiness[05:48] – Aday Mara’s Top-10 Lottery Lock Potential[07:19] – Morez Johnson Jr.’s Toughness & Versatility[09:07] – Guard Insurance: Tim outlines why Dusty May should hunt for a veteran backup point guard to relieve Elliot Cadeau & help the backcourt during LJ Cason’s rehab.[11:08] – Welcoming Jalen Reed to Ann Arbor: LSU transfer Jalen Reed joins the show to discuss the feeling of officially signing with the Wolverines & settling into his new home.[11:59] – Injury Status & Rehab Update: Five Months Post-OpJalen shares an honest status report on his recovery timeline from a November Achilles injury.[13:05] – The Rehab Brotherhood: Jalen discusses building an early connection with fellow rehabbing guard LJ Cason in the training room.[13:45] – Jalen's Massive Breakfast & Workout Routine: A fun look into Jalen's daily schedule, including his go-to breakfast spread before hitting the gym.[14:19] – Overcoming Adversity: The Mental Battle of Back-to-Back Injuries[15:10] – Jalen gives fans a self-scouting report, outlining his high-IQ traits as a versatile slasher, rebounder, & baseline-to-baseline positionless defender.[16:19] – Roster Fit: Evaluating Shared Roles with Mustafa Cham and JP Estrella[17:41] – Genuine Recruiting: The Quick Commitment to Dusty MayJalen reveals how a single, genuine Zoom conversation with Dusty May convinced him and his family to commit to Michigan within 5 minutes of hanging up.[19:26] – Watching from Afar: The Players Era & Championship Run. Jalen admits he accurately picked Michigan to win the natty in his bracket & shares how watching Dusty May unlock Danny Wolf's game helped make A2 his dream destination.[21:15] – Inspirational Resiliency: Tracking Jayson Tatum’s TimelineTim draws comparisons to Jayson Tatum’s similar length and injury recovery, which Jalen cites as a major source of blueprint inspiration for his own return timeline.[22:11] – First Impressions of Ann Arbor: Crisler, The Big House, & SavasJalen recalls the jaw-dropping culture shock of his official visit.[24:26] – Advice on Adversity: Jalen drops a powerful piece of life perspective when faced with unexpected roadblocks.[25:26] – Rapid Fire: Chess Championships, AU Scoring Highs, & Degree Tracks[27:26] – The Reality of Rehab: Blood Flow Restriction Pain[28:22] – Jalen shares his NBA dreams and draws an intriguing comparison between his 6'10" skill set and Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero.[29:08] – Choosing Jersey No. 19: The Meaning Behind Joshua 1:9[29:26] – Closing Thoughts: Jalen delivers a final message to the fanbase before Tim wraps up another fantastic offseason broadcast.#MichiganBasketball #GoBlue #JalenReed

GO BLUE HOOPS Ep.33: Charlie May Reveals Michigan's Biggest Strengths This Season

Michigan basketball is entering one of the most important seasons of the Dusty May era, and Charlie May gives fans a rare behind-the-scenes look at the Wolverines’ culture, preparation, scout team mentality, and expectations heading into the 2026-27 college basketball season.This episode is presented by The Leaders and Best at  @MichiganMedicine  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCfp5MBK2IC90Bdm5IQUJvYw]. There is a difference between and answer and Michigan Answer. To find your Michigan Answer visit www.michigananswers.orgHere are your chapter time stamps and titles:[00:00] – Intro & Michigan Medicine Spotlight Tim McCormick opens the 33rd episode of the podcast, celebrating Michigan's national championship season and introducing today's special guest.[02:21] – An analysis of Elliot Cadeau withdrawing his name from the NBA draft, solidifying Michigan's backcourt alongside Trey McKenney as one of the nation's elite duos.[03:45] – All-Time Greatest Michigan Backcourts Tim ranks his top three backcourts in program history, featuring legendary duos like Jalen Rose and Jimmy King, and Trey Burke paired with Tim Hardaway Jr.[05:25] – Early Bracketology & Opening Night Matchup vs. UConn A look ahead 172 days to opening night at TD Garden in Boston, where Joe Lunardi projects reigning champion Michigan as a No. 1 seed matching up against a loaded No. 2 seed UConn.[06:57] – Kudos to former Wolverines Duncan Robinson and Caris LeVert for their NBA playoff runs, and a status update on where the current roster is training before summer workouts begin in three weeks.[08:35] – Michigan Man Interview: Charlie May joins to discuss graduating with a communications degree and his upcoming transition down south to serve as a graduate assistant for the Georgia Bulldogs.[09:47] – Charlie breaks down the intricate, behind-the-scenes responsibilities of a scout team mimicking complex opponent sets (like Purdue and UConn) to prepare the starters during game weeks.[12:27] – Life as a Coach’s Son & Family Height Genetics: A lighthearted look at balancing a life revolving entirely around basketball at the dinner table, and solving the mystery of how Charlie reached 6'5" when his father Dusty isn't quite as tall.[14:22] – Charlie takes us onto the court as the clock hit zero, sharing a surreal "blackout" celebration moment with Morez Johnson Jr. and a special exchange with his dad.[15:54] – Charlie shares stories of early bonding moments in Ann Arbor, learning to fly fish at local golf course ponds and riding on Will Tschetter's bass boat.[17:03] – A walk down memory lane remembering the team's massive celebration when Charlie hit a corner three while up 30 against Tennessee, highlighting the genuine brotherhood of the squad.[18:24] – The status of the team's championship ink pact, including the story of Charlie getting his number 12 tattooed on his arm alongside Morez Johnson Jr.[19:21] – The Scouting Report on Dusty May's "Suns Games" An honest and comical scouting report on Coach Dusty May's current game during post-practice freshman scrimmages, affectionately dubbed the "Suns games."[20:51] – Looking Ahead: Charlie evaluates the raw athletic skill sets of redshirt freshman Ricky Liburd and Oscar Goodman, projecting them to step up into open roster spots next season.[22:35] – Charlie outlines the most vital concepts he'll take with him to the SEC, focusing on being process-oriented and the necessity of individual sacrifice for the greater good of the team.[25:13] – Tim and Charlie agree on the single loudest, most disorienting venue to play in across the conference.[26:39] – Closing Thoughts: Charlie reflects on what makes the Ann Arbor community a permanent home before Tim wraps up the off-season broadcast.Subscribe to Hail Media for more Michigan basketball coverage, exclusive interviews, player development breakdowns, Big Ten analysis, and insider conversations surrounding Michigan Wolverines basketball.#MichiganBasketball #GoBlue #DustyMay

GO BLUE HOOPS Ep 32: Michigan Basketball Next Breakout Star? Ricky Liburd Speaks + Morez Johnson Jr analysis + New assistant Mody Maor

Michigan basketball analyst Tim McCormick reacts to the NBA Combine performances of Morez Johnson Jr. and Aday Mara before sitting down with rising Wolverine Ricky Liburd to discuss pressure, preparation, leadership, and his future at Michigan. It's GO BLUE HOOPS Episode 32!This episode is presented by The Leaders and Best at  @MichiganMedicine  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCfp5MBK2IC90Bdm5IQUJvYw]. There is a difference between and answer and Michigan Answer. To find your Michigan Answer visit www.michigananswers.orgIs Ricky Liburd ready for the spotlight? Tim gives his honest assessment while Ricky opens up about his basketball journey from Florida to Michigan, the work it takes to compete at the highest level, and what he learned from being part of a national championship team.In this episode of Go Blue Hoops, Ricky shares insights into his training routines, skill development, leadership growth, confidence, and long-term NBA aspirations. Tim and Ricky also dive into the realities of modern college basketball, team chemistry, player development, and the mindset required to succeed at a program like Michigan.Time stamps & Chapter titles:[00:00] – Tim opens the show with a thank you to Michigan Medicine & a preview of the mid-May basketball update.[01:05] – The Small Forward Vacancy: Is Ricky Liburd the Answer?After Juke Harris committed to Tennessee, Tim explains why he believes redshirt freshman Ricky Liburd is the frontrunner to start at the three for Dusty May.[02:35] – The "Mad Scientist" Coaching Staff: Dusty May & Mody MaorAnalysis of new assistant coach Mody Maor’s international background & why his tactical style perfectly mirrors Dusty May’s "basketball junkie" mentality.[04:10] – Dusty May’s NBA "Threat" & USA Basketball RoleTim discusses the potential for NBA teams to target Dusty May in the future & celebrates May’s new role as a court coach for USA Basketball's U18 team.[05:40] – NBA Draft Combine Update: Morez Johnson Jr. RisingTim breaks down Morez Johnson Jr.’s impressive 39-inch vertical & why he believes Morez is a lock for the top 20, making a return to Michigan unlikely.[07:45] – Point Guard Depth & LJ Cason’s Rehab StrategyA look at the backcourt situation following LJ Cason’s ACL injury & how new NCAA "five-in-five" rules might affect his return timeline.[08:50] – Lottery Projections: Yaxel Lendeborg & Aday MaraTim evaluates the draft stock of Michigan’s big men, predicting top-10 status for Lendeborg & high lottery potential for the 7'4" (in shoes) Aday Mara.[11:45] – The "DJ Wilson Rule": Why Morez Should Go ProUsing former Wolverine DJ Wilson as an example, Tim explains the "generational wealth" argument for why Morez Johnson should take his shot at the NBA now.[13:40] – Michigan Man Interview: Ricky Liburd on DevelopmentRicky joins the show to discuss what he learned during his redshirt year, including his visualization techniques and competing against his superstar teammates in practice.[16:45] – Scouting Report: The "3 and D" Athletic WingRicky provides his own scouting report, describing himself as an athletic wing who prides himself on defense, rebounding, and "winning plays."[23:30] – Championship Memories & The "Alpha Dog" LeaderRicky reflects on the national title run, identifies Elliot Cadeau as the team's vocal leader, and shares the specific advice Dusty May gave him to get on the court.[29:10] – Life in Ann Arbor: Winter, Football, & AcademicsFrom experiencing his first snowfall to managing a Michigan student-athlete's schedule, Ricky gives a glimpse into his life off the court.[32:45] – Closing Thoughts: The Work Starts NowTim and Ricky wrap up the interview with a focus on the upcoming summer workouts and a message to the fans.📌 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more exclusive Michigan basketball coverage, player interviews, and insider analysis from Go Blue Hoops and Hail Media Group.#MichiganBasketball #RickyLiburd #MorezJohnsonJr #MichiganWolverines #CollegeBasketball

GO BLUE HOOPS EP31 Michigan’s Roster Blueprint Revealed | Draft Decisions Will Decide Everything + Guest Danny Wolf!

Michigan Basketball roster management is being tested this offseason—and the future of the program may come down to NBA Draft decisions, player development, and transfer portal strategy. In this episode of Go Blue Hoops, Tim McCormick breaks down Michigan Basketball’s 2026-27 roster construction, key position battles, and how draft decisions are reshaping the Wolverines.This episode is presented by The Leaders and Best at  @MichiganMedicine  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCfp5MBK2IC90Bdm5IQUJvYw]. There is a difference between and answer and Michigan Answer. To find your Michigan Answer visit www.michigananswers.orgComing off championship expectations, Michigan Basketball now faces critical roster questions: Who steps up at small forward? Which players stay in the NBA Draft? And how much should Michigan rely on in-house development vs attacking the transfer portal?Tim gives a full breakdown of Michigan’s roster strategy, including:Small forward competition and depth concernsNBA Draft Combine impact on Michigan playersPlayer development timelines vs win-now pressureTransfer portal options vs trusting returning talentHere are your time stamps and chapter titles:[00:00] – Introduction & Michigan Medicine SpotlightTim opens the 31st edition of the podcast, reflecting on the program's national championship momentum and current player activity.[02:22] – Roster Under Construction: Speculating on the 2026-27 LineupA deep dive into Dusty May’s roster management. Tim breaks down the frontcourt depth (Estrella, Thiam, Reed) and the "50/50" draft decision of MZ Johnson.[03:55] – The Search for the Next Small ForwardWith Yaxel Lendeborg and Will Tschetter gone, Tim looks at transfer options (Hamad Mousa), in-house talent like Ricky Liburd, and incoming freshman Brandon McCoy.[06:57] – Point Guard Depth & Elliot Cadeau’s RoleAnalysis of the backcourt, the relief of Elliot Cadeau staying in Ann Arbor, and the potential need for a veteran "academic school" transfer for insurance.[09:05] – LJ Cason’s Injury Timeline & NCAA RulesTim discusses the recovery path for LJ Cason’s ACL and how the NCAA's proposed "five and five" rule impacted his surgery timing.[11:34] – Interview: Danny Wolf on the Brooklyn Nets & Rookie LifeDanny Wolf joins the show to discuss his transition to the NBA, his double-figure scoring months, and playing against legends like LeBron and Steph Curry.[13:25] – Developing the "Two-Big" System with Dusty MayDanny reflects on his recruiting process and how Dusty May convinced him that playing two seven-footers together would revolutionize the offense.[18:01] – From Yale to Michigan: Evolving from Center to Point ForwardA look at how Danny’s skill set was unlocked in Ann Arbor, moving away from a traditional "back to the basket" role to leading the break.[20:45] – Working with Juwan Howard in BrooklynDanny shares what it's like having Michigan legend Juwan Howard on the Nets coaching staff and the "banter" with Michigan State alums in the organization.[26:45] – Favorite Memories: The Big 10 Tournament Buzzer BeaterDanny identifies Trey Donaldson’s shot against Maryland as his top Michigan memory and reflects on the Ann Arbor community.This isn’t just roster talk—this is about how Michigan Basketball sustains success at the highest level under Dusty May.Is Michigan building another championship team…or risking a step back by trusting development over proven transfers?👇 Subscribe for more Michigan Basketball analysis, insider breakdowns, and Go Blue Hoops content.https://mgoblue.com/https://michiganmedicine.org/https://www.nbadraft.net/#MichiganBasketball #GoBlue #nbadraft

Go Blue Hoops Ep30: Michigan’s Championship Run Explained | Tim McCormick + Will Tschetter Break It Down! GO BLUE HOOPS

Michigan Basketball National Championship recap, Front court transfer breakdown (JP Estrella, Moustapha Thiam, Jalen Reed), Morez Johnson Jr. return update, and Will Tschetter interview—Tim McCormick breaks down what’s next for the defending National Champion Wolverines and how Dusty May keeps Michigan on top. Yep - it's GO BLUE HOOPS Episode 30!Go Blue Hoops is presented by the Leaders and Best at  @MichiganMedicine  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCfp5MBK2IC90Bdm5IQUJvYw]. There's a difference between an answer and a Michigan Answer. Get your Michigan Answer at www.michigananswers.org!Now that the dust has settled on Michigan’s National Championship season, Go Blue Hoops takes a full look back at the title run, the leadership, the roster chemistry, and the defining moments that made this team championship-level from start to finish.Tim gives his full analysis of Michigan Basketball’s championship season, what separated this team from the rest of college basketball, and why this run felt different. He also breaks down transfer portal front court additions Moustapha Thiam, Jalen Reed and J.P. Estrella and how they fit into Michigan’s future, and whether Morez Johnson Jr. returning could completely change the ceiling for next season’s roster.Later in the episode, Tim sits down with Will Tschetter to reflect on the championship journey, the locker room chemistry, the adversity, and the small details that helped Michigan make a dynamic run to the National Championship.Can Michigan repeat as National Champions? Is JP Estrella the missing piece? Does Morez Johnson Jr returning make Michigan a Final Four team again?Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know what Michigan Basketball’s biggest offseason move still needs to be.Subscribe to Hail Media Group for more Michigan Basketball coverage, transfer portal updates, exclusive interviews, and championship-level analysis from former players and insiders.This Episode is Presented By: Michigan Medicine#MichiganBasketball #GoBlueHoops #NationalChampions