I immerse myself in Michigan related sports articles on an hourly basis. I usually don’t complain, as these articles are full of great information and respectable insight, but lately I have been bothered. Now obviously it is extremely early to think and write about the 2013-2014 Michigan Men’s Basketball season, but posting these “way to early” previews is how writers make their money and keep interest in fans. So here is my “way to early” response.
What bothers me about these articles is the fact that Spike Albrecht is barely mentioned, if mentioned at all. I recognize that even after loosing Burke and Hardaway Jr., Michigan is still loaded. McGary and Robinson III have decided to return, even though they could have both gone first round in the NBA draft, which is huge. I also am aware that all three new recruits are rated in the top 86 of the ESPN top 100: Mark Donnal (86), Derrick Walton (35), and Zak Irvin (24). Stocks can still drop and rise, but after seeing the last Michigan class, I trust that Beilein and staff are bringing in quality recruits. Nik Stauskas and Caris Levert are also often mentioned along with Jordan Morgan who has played a significant role throughout his career, and I am glad to read about their potential impact on next season as well. But where is the love for Albrecht?
I am aware of his stats for the season, and even how little of an impact he seemed to have on the court at times, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have a huge season ahead of him. Spike averaged 2.2 points a game and fewer than one assist per game, but he also backed up the best player in the nation. The games where he saw the most time were usually when Burke was in foul trouble or having a rough start. When he did step on the court, and was given a chance, he came through. He was never a go-to-guy, but he was never expected to be. He was brought in to hold it down, and keep pace, and he always did just that. He even played the same role in the tournament, and again, he did his job. He kept his poise, balanced his confidence, and was not afraid to take a big shot. From the Sweet 16, all the way to the National title game, he made 9 three-pointers, only missing on one attempt. He took smart, yet big shots, and made them. He exploded on the big stage, when the National Player of the year was stuck in foul trouble, sitting on the pine. He didn’t only fill the spot, as he did all season, but he tool charge and led the team. He blew up Twitter timelines, and became about as famous as a backup point guard can become in a matter of a few hours.
But now it all seems so short lived. He is all of the sudden back to being the barley mentioned “backup.” I understand that Walton is going to develop into a prime and reliable point guard, but I think leaving Spike Albrecht out of the equation is a mistake. If anything, Michigan is even deeper with him in the lineup. Don’t expect Mr. Albrecht to take the backseat to an incoming freshman. He will fight for the starting job, and do everything he can to prove that he deserves to be a big part of the conversation. Spike will be happy no matter what his role is next season; that is just the type of kid he is. His interest is in the team, and loving up on the new basketball brotherhood he is apart of. I don’t know him personally, but it is obvious that he is a kid that will work as hard as he can; no matter what role he is given.
In my opinion, you can't overlook a kid who you know will work his tail off all year, and give his best efforts at all times during the 2013-2014 season. Give credit where credit is due. Spike Albrecht is becoming the definition of a true Michigan Man.
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