Big Ten Media Day

Could this be the year for Michigan? By Hannah McCaffrey

(AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Thursday, October 27 was the 2011 Big Ten Basketball Media Day. Players and coaches gathered in Chicago to talk about the upcoming season. Big Ten commissioner James Delaney as well as head coaches from all twelve schools addressed reporters. The 2011-12 season is going to be an action packed one.

Coach John Beilein of the Michigan Wolverines spoke very highly of his team on Thursday. He believes this group may have what it takes to go far in the NCAA tournament this year. On paper, the Wolverines could make this a season to remember. Four starters are returning including senior G Stu Douglass, senior G Zack Novak, and sophomore G Tim Hardaway Jr. who were all present at Media Day.

The team is excited about the upcoming season and are ready to work hard. Hardaway explained, “We’re just trying to get the message out that Michigan is almost back to where it needs to be, but we still have a long ways to go.” Hardaway has a lot of pressure on his shoulders this season. Coach Beilein told reporters that Hardaway is already getting ready to endure a more pressurized defense. He’s playing unselfishly with seven assists and zero turnovers in the Wolverines’ last scrimmage.


Beilein acknowledges the raw talent that the Wolverines have this year. This year the boys have an extra spark that has been missing in past seasons. “We have a great team chemistry,” Beilein said. “A lot of intangibles go into winning. We hope we possess as many as you would need.”

Catch Coach Beilein’s full statements and responses here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBMCMKMve9A