Michigan guard Caris LeVert will return to school for his senior season, the program announced Tuesday. The 6-foot-7 junior was averaging 14.9 points, 3.7 assists and 1.8 steals before a foot injury sidelined him for the season’s 14 games.
LeVert was considered a possible first round pick in the NBA Draft earlier in the season, but that became less likely following the injury.
“My family and I, along with the coaching staff, gathered as much information as possible,”LeVert said in a statement. “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.”
With LeVert back, Michigan becomes a possible Top 25 team next season. The Wolverines return everyone except 6-foot-7 forward Max Bielfeldt, who who averaged 5.1 points and 3.6 rebounds.
“We love coaching Caris and are excited he has decided to come back for his final season,” coach John Beilein said in a release. “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.”
If there is any positive to LeVert and starting point guard Derrick Walton Jr. missing large chunks of last season is that their absences gave the Wolverines’ youngsters a chance to gain valuable experience. Michigan will be able to go at least nine men deep in 2015-16.
