3 things we learned from Michigan basketball's exhibition win over Eastern Michigan

Michigan's basketball team showcased three notable aspects in their exhibition win over Eastern Michigan, signaling promising developments for the upcoming 2026-27 season. First and foremost, the offense appears to be primarily orchestrated by the backcourt, with guards Elliot Cadeau and Trey McKenney leading the charge. Cadeau, often the ball-handler, serves as the team's conductor, frequently facilitating plays and setting up teammates for success.

His ability to navigate pick-and-rolls and deliver accurate no-look passes to teammates was evident throughout the game. McKenney, on the other hand, was given free reign to take shots, demonstrating his scoring prowess with 21 points on 13 attempts, including three from beyond the arc. The combination of these two talented guards forms a dynamic offensive engine that will likely drive the team's play throughout the season.

Secondly, Moustapha Thiam emerged as a versatile and impactful big man for Michigan. While his individual statistics were modest, Thiam showcased flashes of his potential to change the game. His gravity on the court drew defenders into double-teams, creating opportunities for open shots in the corner. Thiam's athleticism allowed him to handle the ball outside the paint and execute unconventional moves, such as a spin move and a pump fake leading to a crucial and-one hook.

His effectiveness on defense was particularly noteworthy, with four blocks and numerous altered shots, highlighting his ability to alter opponents' shot selection even when not actively blocking. As Thiam continues to develop, he is expected to contribute significantly to Michigan's defensive efforts and overall team success.

Lastly, the exhibition game provided valuable glimpses into the roles and performances of other key players. Quinn Costello, the remaining McDonald's All-American, displayed his proficiency as a shooter, sinking 4 of 8 long-range attempts and finishing with 16 points. His length and defensive awareness were showcased when he swiped a steal and transitioned into a slam dunk.

JP Estrella, who started the game on the bench, demonstrated improved shooting range, connecting on two three-pointers. Oscar Goodman and Ricky Liburd, both returnees expected to progress significantly, struggled in this exhibition game, with Liburd playing a limited role. However, backup point guard Kenny Noland's poor shooting performance might have contributed to the team's negative rating when he was on the court.

Freshman Joseph Hartmann, despite making some freshman errors, proved to be a reliable wing player, leading with two three-pointers and making efficient passes for teammates. Overall, these observations provide a solid foundation for understanding the strengths and areas of improvement for Michigan basketball as they prepare for the upcoming season.