The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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INSIDE MICHIGAN ATHLETICS he'd remain in Ann Arbor for another year. All of that talk went by the way- side in late April, though, when the other issue became public. At the time, McGary released a state- ment through Michigan's athletic web- site, MGoBlue.com, that noted: "Be- ing a part of a program that values integrity, it is important to let every- one know of a poor decision I recently made. I tested positive for marijuana during the NCAA Tournament. We were notified of that result after the Final Four. I regret thoroughly disap- pointing my family, coaches and ad- ministration. Despite all of this they have been understanding and helpful over the last couple of weeks. "I take full responsibility for this poor choice and want to apologize to everyone, especially those I have grown close to during my fabulous two years at the University of Michi- gan. "I love the University of Michigan and all it has allowed me to do. I have had my ups and downs, especially with my injury this season. I want to thank all the fans for embracing me. This has been the best two years of my life and I have some unbelievable memories. I know that I will be a Wol- verine forever. Go Blue." Michigan head coach John Beilein offered his support for the big man who helped his team reach the NCAA championship game in the spring of 2013. "Mitch has had a tremendous im- pact on our program from the moment he committed to us," Beilein said. "He has injected an enthusiasm that cannot be matched. This is why he is loved by the coaching staff, his teammates and Wolverine fans. The progress he has made on and off the court has been outstanding. "His willingness to face a personal issue head on and his positive work ethic during his recent injury have helped him to grow in many ways. We know that he will put all of his energy and effort toward achieving his goals. We will continue to assist and support Mitch as he pursues a career in the NBA." In what most consider a loaded draft, it's not clear where McGary might wind up. Joel Cornette, the agent overseeing Priority's pre-draft training, pointed up the big man's con- siderable assets. "Obviously, Mitch is in a unique situation, sitting out the majority of last year," Cornette told The Free Press. "And unfortunately, basketball's not like riding a bike, especially for a guy like Mitch, who was so skilled as a big man. He has so many skills and ability. It's been a two-fold project with him. One, making sure the back is coming along, and two, sharpening his skills that have been dulled from sitting out. "Physically, Mitch is a beast. He's a terrific kid, he's going to be great in any locker room in the NBA." McGary played in just eight games in 2013-14, averaging 9.5 points and 8.3 rebounds per game. In his freshman year, he averaged 7.5 points and 6.3 rebounds in 39 games, but came into his own during the NCAA Tourna- ment, averaging 14.3 points and 10.7 rebounds per contest.