Nimari Burnett’s return is a good thing for Michigan basketball

Nimari Burnett is coming back to Michigan basketball for another season, according to an announcement from the program on Tuesday.

The transfer portal window closes on May 1st, so you had a feeling this was coming. There was going to be some sort of announcement, but this is a move I like for the Wolverines.

One more year 😤 @NimariBurnett pic.twitter.com/ECURCDTlDl

— Michigan Men's Basketball (@umichbball) April 30, 2024

Burnett is a former five-star recruit. Juwan Howard recruited him out of high school but Burnett committed to Texas Tech before he transferred to Alabama and then to Michigan.

Burnett started every game he played last season for the Wolverines and was an effective player. He averaged 9.4 points per game and shot 34.7 percent from 3-point range. At times, he was asked to be what he’s not — a primary ball-handler.

Michigan just didn’t have much depth last season. That’s not going to be the case next season under Dusty May, who has added Trey Donaldson, Roddy Gayle, Rubin Jones, Justin Pippen, Lorenzo Cason, and Durral Brooks. Another scoring guard could always be added, but it’s still a major upgrade, especially now that we know Burnett is back in the fold.

Burnett did enter the NBA draft. However, it’s likely he’s just getting feedback for the future. Fans might not want Burnett back but he’s a solid defender and can play multiple spots in a three-guard lineup.

Michigan basketball needed more defenders and Burnett was part of really good defenses at Texas Tech and Colorado. Last season wasn’t on Burnett and on a better team, he offers plenty of value in the right role.

Whether he comes off the bench or even starts, Burnett gives Michigan another quality guard, who can shoot from deep and defend. That’s nothing to scoff at.

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