Caris LeVert To Return To Michigan Wolverines And Forego 2015 NBA Draft

On Tuesday morning, Michigan guard Caris LeVert opted to forego the 2015 NBA Draft and return to Michigan for his senior season.  LeVert has played in three season for Michigan and earned All-Big Ten 2nd Team honors in 2013-14 and was a preseason All-American before going down with injury in 2014-15.

LeVert announced his decision in a release from Michigan.  LeVert talked about his process for making his decision

"Over the past few months, I have spent a lot of time thinking about my future," said LeVert. "My family and I, along with the coaching staff, gathered as much information as possible. After considering my options, I am excited to announce I will return for my senior year.

LeVert also talked about the importance of Michigan and earning a degree.

Coming back allows me to keep working towards my Michigan degree and take the next steps in my development as a player, teammate and a leader of our program. Michigan is a very special place and the college experience only comes once. The future is bright and I am blessed to be part of it."

Head coach John Beilein also talked about LeVert's decision to return.

"We love coaching Caris and are excited he has decided to come back for his final season. His injury last season was unfortunate, but he never wavered in his commitment as a leader, a student or with his rehabilitation. Caris is a special person both on and off the court and we are proud of what he has accomplished. The best is yet to come for a young man like Caris LeVert."

For Michigan, this is huge news.  The Wolverines were already set to bring back a pretty deep and talented roster for the 2015-16 season, but the inclusion of Caris LeVert gives them a legitimate star contributor who can push them over the top against a lot of teams.  Aubrey Dawkins and Zak Irvin have the potential to become All-Big Ten contributors, but LeVert is a relatively known commodity and earned 2nd Team honors in 2013-14.

With LeVert back in the lineup, Michigan has the chance to build off a lackluster 2014-15 season where the team was decimated by injuries.  With virtually everyone now returning, the team could take major steps forward.

For LeVert, this is a chance to recover from injury and improve his stock for the 2016 NBA Draft.  Either way, Michigan fans have to be excited about what the team should have for next season.