The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/629217
M ichigan hit game five of the Big Ten season with lingering questions about the status of senior captain Caris LeVert. The standout guard, who is on a number of player of the year watch lists, remained out with a "lower-leg" injury. At press time (Jan. 19), though, there appeared to be some move- ment in a positive direction. Head coach John Beilein said in recent days that LeVert won't be allowed to come back until he is "pain free." Following Michigan's 82-71 loss at Iowa Jan. 17, that's how Beilein described how his four-year veteran was walking around — pain free. Le- Vert was to undergo further medical testing in the days that followed, to ensure there is no problem bringing him back into practice and games. Beilein's staff is taking all pre- cautions, for a number of reasons. LeVert, Michigan's leading scorer with an average of 17.6 points per game and its biggest playmaker, could make the difference between the Wolverines being a solid team and one that could make an NCAA Tournament run. They want to make sure once he's back, he doesn't suffer another setback. LeVert is also a potential first- round NBA Draft pick, so his future is being carefully considered. He has broken his foot twice prior to this most recent injury. Beilein noted following the Iowa game that LeVert continues working on what he can to get stronger and more prepared physically to return to action. "He's doing stuff in the water tank," Beilein said. "He's getting ready. You could use him for 10 to 15 minutes, who knows?" MICHIGAN BASKETBALL Wolverines Still Awaiting Caris LeVert's Return Head coach John Beilein said LeVert won't return to action until he is "pain free" to help avoid further injury. PHOTO BY LON HORWEDEL