Michigan’s overseas exhibition trip has turned into an early test of depth, and the latest blow came just 20 seconds into Game 3 against Mega SuperBet in Croatia.
Five-star freshman Brandon McCoy Jr. slipped while going up for a layup and stayed down on the court in clear pain. Trainer Chris Williamson and another staff member helped him to his feet, and McCoy Jr. appeared to be putting very little weight on his right foot. While nothing has been confirmed, it looked like his day was over right then.
That’s a rough development for a freshman who started all three exhibition games and is expected to be a major part of Michigan’s rotation this season. Unless Roddy Gayle Jr. returns, McCoy Jr. would likely be in line to start for the Wolverines in Year 1.
Michigan was already dealing with injuries before McCoy Jr. went down. In Game 1, center Moustapha Thiam was rolled up on by guard Elliot Cadeau and exited after playing fewer than six minutes. He did not return to that game, missed Game 2, and did not suit up again for Game 3.
Mike Boynton Jr. had also said before the team left for Lithuania that Lincoln Cosby and Jalen Reed would not be available for any of the exhibition games. Both are still working back from injuries they suffered last season.
Another surprise has been Ricky Liburd’s absence. He didn’t play in either of the first two games, and his name was not listed on Michigan’s roster ahead of Thursday’s contest. Liburd is expected to have a significant role this season, and Boynton Jr. did not provide an explanation for his absence when speaking with the media.
There was one positive note for the Wolverines on Thursday: after sitting out the second exhibition game following a foul in Game 1, Trey McKenney returned to the lineup and started.
With Michigan short-handed, the freshmen have been asked to carry more of the load. Quinn Costello, Marcus Moller, Joseph Hartman, and Malachi Brown have all logged extended minutes.
As of now, McCoy Jr. has not returned to the bench with the team, and the situation remains one to watch as more information becomes available.
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