On Sunday, Hunter Dickinson posted a brief, clear message on Instagram: “I haven’t done it yet.” A great boon to the Michigan basketball program, Dickinson’s return marks a new era in college basketball as a whole.
Dickinson joined Brian Bosch on the University of Michigan’s “Defend the Block” podcast this week to extend his decision.
“I didn’t feel like college basketball was over yet. I wanted to prove it and work harder, “said Dickinson. “I think when I go to the NBA – I think I could have gone last year and this year – I think the biggest thing for me is that when I get there, I want to be as prepared as possible for the next level. “
The major role played by NIL in Dickinson’s comeback is noteworthy. In an age where players can be well paid to play in the G-League or abroad, he does not have to sacrifice all his income.
“If you had said earlier this year, if I had been asked if I would have come back for another year, I would have told you ‘no way,'” Dickinson said. “I had a feeling, the way NIL was going, and how I still loved college, that the door was always open for me to come back.
“I think with NIL, that door is definitely open for me to come back and I’m definitely excited to work another year under coach Howard.”
He also spoke about his college basketball experience and aspirations in Michigan.
“Being so close to my new year, and then having a really fun run last year, made me want to come back and hopefully try to get into those final four and national championship games,” Dickinson said. “I think we’re really close. Basketball is a game of inches, especially in competition.
“That heritage part means something to me.”
Dickinson has already compiled a long list of achievements, including the regular season’s Big Ten title as well as the second-team All-American Ecclesiastes. The third season at Ann Arbor will give him a chance to carry on his legacy in Michigan.
Dickinson’s return will give more time to the development of the new Terris Reed at the center. In addition, it provides an experienced presence for several senior losing teams, including Eli Brooks, Devente Jones and Brandon Jones.
With both Moussa Diabate and Caleb Houstan entering the NBA with a chance to return to the draft, the roster is still in the summer. But the official return of Dickinson is a big sigh for Michigan fans everywhere.
