Wolverine Digest

Dusty May declares lightly utilized freshman a key component to this year's success

Not all players make their impact under the bright lights or in the big game, some make an impact behind the scenes
Jerred Johnson|
Michigan head coach Dusty May, center, talks to guard Rubin Jones (15), left, guard Nimari Burnett (4), center right, and guard Tre Donaldson (3), right, before a play against Purdue during the second half at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025.
Michigan head coach Dusty May, center, talks to guard Rubin Jones (15), left, guard Nimari Burnett (4), center right, and guard Tre Donaldson (3), right, before a play against Purdue during the second half at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Michigan basketball has been on an impressive run lately, winning six straight games and sitting alone atop the Big Ten standings. Head coach Dusty May has his team playing their best basketball of the season, with a strong collective effort on both ends of the floor. Leading the charge are their two dominant 7-footers: Danny Wolf and Vlad Goldin. Wolf is the only player in the Big Ten averaging a double-double, showcasing his ability to dominate the paint and provide a consistent scoring and rebounding presence. Goldin, on the other hand, is a constant scoring threat, capable of dropping 20+ points any time he steps on the court, giving Michigan a formidable frontcourt that many Big Ten teams do not have an answer for.

Point guard Tre Donaldson has also played a crucial role in the team's success. His ability to manage the offense and mitigate turnovers, which had been a problem earlier in the season, has been a key factor in the Wolverines’ recent surge. Donaldson’s decision-making has allowed Michigan to play more efficiently and control the tempo of games. He also has the ability to stretch the defense with his 3-point prowess which opens up the inside for Goldin.

Phat Phat
Michigan guard Phat Phat Brooks (8) defends Cleveland State guard Chase Robinson (22) during the first half at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

While the veterans have carried the load on the court, Coach May recently gave a special shoutout to a little-used freshman from Grand Rapids, Michigan—Phat Phat Brooks. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 190 pounds, Brooks may not see much playing time this season, but his potential is undeniable. Currently, he is playing a vital role with the scout team, pushing Michigan’s starters in practice. Coach May recognizes Brooks' future importance to the program, and his development will be a key factor in Michigan's long-term success. While his impact may not be immediate, Brooks is expected to be a major contributor for Michigan basketball in the coming years.

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Jerred Johnson
JERRED JOHNSON

Jerred Johnson has served in the United States military for over 23 years. He has a Bachelors in Marketing, a Masters in Management and is in the final phases of completing his Doctorate in Business Administration.

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