Michigan is wasting no time getting back into the recruiting game as the season opens, and one of its next visitors is a highly regarded wing from the 2028 class.
According to Sam Kayser of League Ready, the Wolverines are set to host Isaac Smith for an unofficial visit on November 2, when Michigan begins its season against Oakland. Kayser also reported that Smith will take another unofficial visit to Indiana on November 13.
Smith, a Kansas City product who plays for Monarch Academy, is a top-25 prospect nationally and checks in at No. 24 in the class according to Rivals. The 6-foot-7 wing is a four-star recruit and has held a Michigan offer since September.
The interest makes sense based on both his production and profile. Smith averaged 17.8 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game as a sophomore, and his game fits the kind of perimeter length Michigan has traditionally valued. He brings scoring from all three levels, can create his own shot and has the ability to attack the rim as a slasher.
Michigan’s roster direction also adds another layer to why Smith stands out as a target. Mike Boynton Jr. said the program is leaning into bigger wings, noting, "I think as I go in today, I would imagine Roddy will slide into that starting wing spot with Elliot, and Trey, JP, and Moustapha," Boynton Jr. said.
"And then you're looking at Ricky, Quinn, and Oscar, probably in that next group with Joseph out. Marcus is still working back.
Jalen Reed's certainly going to be a part of what we do.
That approach would mark a change from Dusty May’s three-big lineup from last season, though Boynton Jr. made clear that personnel could keep things fluid. If Michigan keeps prioritizing size and versatility on the wing, Smith looks like a natural fit.
There will be no shortage of competition, either. Kansas, Indiana, Texas Tech, West Virginia and Vanderbilt have all offered Smith.
Michigan is also trying to rebound on the recruiting trail after Devin Cleveland chose Missouri instead of the Wolverines. Even with that miss, Smith’s visit gives Michigan another major name to chase early in the cycle.
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