Michigan Basketball Lands Columbia Transfer Noland

Michigan's men's basketball team has added veteran depth with the signing of Columbia fifth-year senior Kenny Noland. Noland, who started all four seasons with Columbia, averaged 17.1 points and 3.7 assists over 33 minutes per game last season. He is expected to serve as the primary backup point guard for Elliot Cadeau.

The transfer of L.J. Cason opened up a roster spot and a need for ball-handling depth, which Noland now fills. This move significantly impacts the development paths for freshmen Joseph Hartman and Malachi Brown. Hartman, a highly-touted recruit, will have his initial playing time managed, preventing him from being immediately thrust into a primary rotation role.

Malachi Brown, a wing player, will also likely see limited minutes this season due to Noland's addition. Ricky Liburd's role as a sixth man might be slightly adjusted, and his potential to play alongside Cadeau and McKenney could be reduced, though his overall playing time is not expected to be drastically cut.