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Michigan Wolverine basketball fans have made their statement. They are engaged and excited for the unknown in the season to come. It will be Juwan Howard’s first season at the helm after the departure of future hall of fame coach John Beilein. The school reported yesterday that they have sold out of season tickets at a number of 11,163. Their highest season ticket number since the 2000-2001 season. Additionally, student ticket sales are currently at 3,255 tickets. An increase from 3,086 student tickets sold last year.
Last season, the Wolverines sold 10,775 season tickets. Surpassing that number this season is significant considering two things. First, the 2018-2019 team was highly regarded last season after coming off of a National Championship appearance that capped off a historic 2017-2018 season. Second, the 18-19 team was returning a deep and talented roster with a good chance at making it back to the Final Four and beyond.
It is evident that this year’s team is not as talented on paper as the previous few years. However, the spectacular ticket sales show strong support from the fan base for their new head coach Juwan Howard.
It won’t be easy for Howard to come into the college ranks in general. Add in the fan expectations to stay in contention for the Big Ten and beyond and the pressure is significant. The Wolverines have been masterful at home the past four seasons with a win percentage just shy of 87%. They will look to continue the trend behind a Maize and Blue contingent eager to ring in the Howard era.