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Caris LeVert says ‘no’ to NBA, makes Michigan instant contenders

By Connor Muldowney

Jan 17, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines head coach John Beilein talks to guard Caris LeVert (23) during the first half against the Northwestern Wildcats at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 17, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines head coach John Beilein talks to guard Caris LeVert (23) during the first half against the Northwestern Wildcats at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Michigan Wolverines’ star guard Caris LeVert has announced on Tuesday that he will be coming back to school and saying no to the NBA for one last year.

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After a long speculation process in which many people thought he would head to the NBA, 6-foot-7 guard Caris LeVert has announced, per the school, that he will return to Michigan for his senior season, making the Wolverines instant contenders.

While Michigan finished just 16-16 last season, far from contending for a Big Ten title, LeVert played in just a handful of games before injuring his foot early in the conference season, putting him out for the year.

LeVert is pretty excited about coming back to take care of some unfinished business, however.

"“Over the past few months, I have spent a lot of time thinking about my future. My family and I, along with the coaching staff, gathered as much information as possible. After considering my options, I am excited to announce I will return for my senior year. Coming back allows me to keep working towards my Michigan degree and take the next steps in my development as a player, teammate and a leader of our program. Michigan is a very special place and the college experience only comes once. The future is bright and I am blessed to be part of it.” -Caris LeVert"

It seems like the young athlete didn’t buy into the hype of leaving early and decided a college degree, along with a more solidified future, was more important than rushing his process of leaving Michigan.

LeVert has the talent to lead Michigan, and with a healthy trio of LeVert, Derrick Walton and Zac Irvin, the Wolverines will be serious contenders for the Big Ten crown next season.

Spending an offseason getting healthy is the best thing for the young star as he has the potential to be something great at Michigan and follow in the footsteps of the guys who came before him, Trey Burke and Tim Hardaway Jr., and make a name for himself in the NBA.

He will instantly make Michigan contenders again after a mediocre 2014-15 season in which the team missed out on the NCAA Tournament as well as the NIT.

John Beilein was pretty happy with the news as well.

"“We love coaching Caris and are excited he has decided to come back for his final season. His injury last season was unfortunate, but he never wavered in his commitment as a leader, a student or with his rehabilitation. Caris is a special person both on and off the court and we are proud of what he has accomplished. The best is yet to come for a young man like Caris LeVert.” -John Beilein"

Watch out for Michigan next year, everybody.

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