Michigan Men’s Basketball Downs Toledo 96-92 in Exhibition Game

Michigan men’s basketball won its second and final exhibition game on Friday against Toledo by a score of 96-92. The Wolverines had five players score in double figures, led by guards Roddy Gayle Jr. and LJ Cason with 20 points. Cason, a freshman, got his 20 points in 19 minutes. Cason seems to be a delightful surprise for Michigan in the preseason, as he offers scoring, defense and overall energy off the bench. 

Takeaways From Michigan vs Toledo

Free throws were a bit of a concern in the first exhibition game against Oakland, as the Wolverines shot 50% from the line. Michigan came back with a mark of 85% against Toledo, so head coach Dusty May seems to have figured that out. 

Cason saw six more minutes of playing time against the Rockets, and he delivered. Aside from a team-high tying 20 points, Cason had four rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. He could help Michigan’s backcourt immensely this season.

May nearly put the whole roster on the floor against Oakland, but Friday seemed much more like a regular season game. Ten players checked in for the Wolverines against Toledo, including two freshmen, Cason and guard Phat Phat Brooks. 

In both exhibition games Michigan shot over 40% from deep range and over 45% from the field.

What Do We Know?

Michigan seems to have four of five starting positions locked up. Tre Donaldson and Roddy Gayle Jr. will be starting at guard with Danny Wolf and Vladislav Goldin at the four and five, respectively. Guard Rubin Jones started in both exhibition games and has more personal fouls (6) than points (5). 

If May continues to start three guards, Nimari Burnett would be the most likely candidate to slide into Jones’ spot. If Burnett doesn’t claim it and Cason continues to impress, the freshman could find himself in the starting lineup as well. 

May and the Wolverines will welcome Cleveland State to start the regular season on November 4.

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