Michigan opens its new season against Oakland on Monday, Nov. 2, at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, giving the reigning champs an early look at a roster that looks very different from a year ago. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. ET.
The Wolverines are coming off a title run, but the next chapter begins with plenty of new pieces in place. Yaxel Lendeborg is expected to be one of the key names to watch, along with Morez Johnson and Aday Mara, as Dusty May begins the new campaign with a fresh group.
A familiar opponent to start the year
This is not the first time Michigan and Oakland have met early in the season. The teams played in the 2020-21 campaign, and they also met last season when Michigan rolled to a 121-69 win in the opener and led 69-38 at halftime. That margin showed the gap between the teams then, but it also serves as a reminder of how quickly a season opener can set the tone.
Oakland enters this matchup after missing the NCAA Tournament in each of the past two seasons. The Grizzlies are also trying to build momentum after upsetting Kentucky in 2024, a result that showed they can still threaten bigger programs when they find the right rhythm.
What Michigan is trying to establish
For Michigan, the opener is about more than just getting a win. It is the first chance to see how the new rotation looks in game action before a major title game rematch later that week. Elliot Cadeau and Trey McKenney are among the players expected to help drive the offense, while Roddy Gayle is another name to watch as the Wolverines sort out their depth.
That kind of early testing matters for a team trying to replace major production while still carrying the expectations that come with being the reigning champs. The opener should offer a clear first glance at how quickly Michigan can settle into a new identity.
Oakland's challenge in Ann Arbor
Oakland was picked No. 4 in the Horizon League preseason poll, so the Grizzlies arrive in Ann Arbor with a different kind of pressure. They are not being asked to chase a national spotlight, but they do have an opportunity to measure themselves against one of the country's most visible programs.
Mike Boynton will coach his first game in charge against Michigan, which adds another layer to the matchup. For Oakland, the task is straightforward: stay competitive, handle the opening atmosphere, and see whether the group can test a Michigan team still working through early-season questions.
For Michigan, the goal is just as clear. Start the year cleanly, learn the new pieces, and move toward the bigger games ahead.
