ANN ARBOR, Mich. — This time the press conference was set up to announce a return and not a departure. Two returns in fact.
Freshman forwards Glenn Robinson III and Mitch McGary held a joint press conference at the Crisler Center on Thursday to announce that they would be returning to Michigan for their sophomore seasons. Earlier this week, Trey Burke and Tim Hardaway Jr. held separate press conferences to announce they were leaving the Wolverines early to enter the NBA Draft.
“It was important we gave Glenn and Mitch, and their families, as much time as they needed to make the best and most informed decision they could with all the information they gathered,” said U-M Head Coach John Beilein. “We are excited to see them coming back. Both are a joy to coach and their enthusiasm, work ethic and passion for Michigan is second to none. They improved throughout the season and have only scratched the surface of their potential as players and leaders.”
The 6-foot-6 Robinson III started all 39 games for the Wolverines this season and averaged 11.2 points and 5.4 rebounds per game.
“This past season was an unbelievable journey and a great learning experience for me,” said Robinson III. “I still have a lot of areas to develop in my game and I am looking forward to doing that at Michigan with this coaching staff and my teammates.”
The 6-foot-10 McGary averaged 7.5 points and 6.3 rebounds per game for the season. However, McGary really became a breakout star during the NCAA tournament where he averaged 14.3 points and 10.7 rebounds in Michigan’s six games that led to the NCAA Championship Game. Louisville defeated Michigan in the final game, but McGary and Robinson III will get another chance next season.
“There is still plenty for me to work on as both a player and person,” said McGary. “Michigan is the right place for me to continue growing and I am excited about what lies ahead. In a short period of time, this university, this community and all the Wolverine fans have embraced me and I am truly thankful for that. I look forward to representing Michigan with my teammates and to becoming a leader of this team.”
