How Michigan’s roster will appear in the absence of Olivier Nkamhoua.
The Michigan Wolverines disclosed on Wednesday that their standout forward, Olivier Nkamhoua, will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a wrist injury necessitating surgery.
Nkamhoua maintained averages of 14.8 points and 7.1 rebounds with a shooting percentage of 52.2 in 33.4 minutes per game this season, marking a significant improvement from his performances in the previous four seasons with the Tennessee Volunteers, during which he averaged 10.8 points and five rebounds in 25.3 minutes per game.
With Nkamhoua absent from the starting lineup, Michigan will have to rely on other players to conclude the season and assess the potential of its younger athletes for the next season.
Terrance Williams II, Will Tschetter, and Tray Jackson have all seen substantial playing time at forward this season. Despite Williams missing the last game, he has been one of Michigan’s standout performers, averaging 12.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 33 minutes per game. As one of the longest-serving Wolverines, Williams will be heavily depended upon to assume Nkamhoua’s offensive role and contribute defensively on the boards.
However, Tschetter stands to benefit the most from this situation. After redshirting his freshman year, Tschetter has seen his playing time and scoring increase over the last two seasons. While he averaged 10.7 minutes and 2.3 points last year, he has transitioned into the sixth-man role this season, with his playing time increasing to 16.4 minutes and his scoring to 6.8 points per game.
With Nkamhoua out, Tschetter will likely step into the starting power forward position, providing him with an opportunity to further develop during the final stretch of the season and prepare for the next year, barring an unexpected run in the Big Ten Tournament.
Jackson also stands to gain from this situation. Despite being brought in from Seton Hall as additional forward depth, he quickly found himself as the fourth forward on the depth chart due to uncertainties about Williams and Tschetter. Despite limited playing time, Jackson has made his presence felt early in the season, showcasing his abilities with notable performances. Now expected to be the primary player off the bench, Jackson will assume Tschetter’s original role. With increased playing time, he is poised to make significant contributions as a versatile forward/center.
