The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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42 THE WOLVERINE DECEMBER 2016 ally more dirty," Wagner said. "There are more things allowed than here, which doesn't mean the game is more physical. Here, you've got to be smart physical, use your body more. "There, especially on the perimeter, you can use your hands way more, be way more aggressive defensively. Another thing that really stands out is the charge. It's not as popular to call in Europe as it is here. It's a good oppor- tunity for a defensive player." Digging in down on the low block, or setting a good screen, also involves a significant change in the jump across the pond, Wagner explained. "It's harder to play here," he said. "Down in the post and on the boards, you've got to be physical, but you've got to be smart at the same time. You can't just grab somebody and throw them away. In Europe, sometimes it is like that. "Or illegal screens. That's a big thing here. In Europe, you can move, you can move your hip. You don't even have to set a screen. You can just be in his way, and it's a good screen. Here you can't do it. "There are so many rules. It de- mands a lot of focus and concentration. You've got to be physical to be suc- cessful, obviously. But you've got to be smart, too, to stay out of foul trouble." FAMILY TO FAMILY Beilein made certain Wagner got home to see his family over the sum- mer. While the sophomore certainly benefited from all the time he spent in the gym with his teammates, a fort- night in Berlin proved advantageous in many ways. Wagner spent time with his dad, a psychologist with a thriving practice, his mother, a journalist specializing in medical reporting, and his teenage brother. The youngest of the Wagner clan hunkers down on the hardcourt as well. "That's his only love," Wagner said, smiling. "He's 15 years old, and every time I watch his games, I'm impressed and jealous. It's just a matter of time un- til he catches me, in terms of skill set." Catching up with the crew meant a Although Wagner averaged just 2.9 points and 1.6 rebounds in 8.6 minutes per game overall as a rookie, he played his best in the Big Ten and NCAA Tournaments. In five post- season contests, he averaged 11.4 minutes, 4.4 points and 3.0 rebounds per game. PHOTO BY PER KJELDSEN