The Michigan Wolverines men's basketball program is strengthening its backcourt with a significant new acquisition. The team has successfully brought in Kenny Noland, a fifth-year guard who previously played for Columbia University. While the official announcement is pending, sources familiar with the situation have confirmed this addition to the Free Press.
Noland's tenure at Columbia saw him emerge as a prolific scorer and playmaker. During the 2025-26 season, he topped his team with an impressive 17.1 points per game, ranking second in the competitive Ivy League. Beyond scoring, he demonstrated his versatility by averaging 3.4 rebounds and 3.4 assists per contest. This strategic signing directly addresses Michigan's requirement for an experienced backup point guard, a role left vacant after L.J. Cason's transfer to Miami. Although Trey McKenney and Brandon McCoy Jr. are also on the roster, their primary positions are off-ball.
A true all-around contributor, the 6-foot-2, 180-pound guard consistently excelled for the Lions, leading them in assists, successful field goals, made three-pointers, and free throws, while also logging the most minutes per game in his senior year. Noland has participated in 111 career games, starting 57 of them, and showcased remarkable accuracy from the free-throw line last season, converting 92.1% of his attempts. His exceptional performance earned him three Ivy League Player of the Week awards in 2025-26 and a spot on the All-Ivy League Second Team. With Noland's commitment, the Wolverines now boast 14 scholarship players, with one roster spot remaining open. The team is also preparing for a 10-day international tour to Lithuania and Croatia, where they will compete in three exhibition matches against overseas opponents, starting on Thursday, August 20.
This strategic move underscores the team's dedication to building a robust and competitive roster. By integrating talent like Kenny Noland, the Wolverines are not only filling immediate needs but also fostering an environment of continuous improvement and striving for excellence, setting a positive tone for future seasons.