In this episode of Go Blue Hoops, host Tim McCormick — former Michigan Basketball Legend, 10-year NBA veteran, and longtime ESPN analyst — breaks down the Michigan vs Oakland matchup with his expert postgame analysis. From defensive adjustments to offensive rhythm, Tim takes you inside the X’s and O’s of Michigan Basketball’s early-season performance under 2nd year head coach Dusty May. We dive deep into what’s working, what still needs polish, and which players are stepping up — including Trey McKinney, the highly touted freshman guard making waves across the NCAA Hoops landscape, and Yaxel Lendeborg, whose energy and versatility are already giving Michigan a new defensive identity. Whether you’re a die-hard Wolverine fan or a casual college basketball viewer, this episode gives you real basketball insight — not just the box score.
Then, Tim sits down for a rare and powerful conversation with Cazzie Russell, one of the most iconic figures in Michigan Basketball history. The former No. 1 overall NBA Draft pick and 1966 National Player of the Year opens up about his incredible journey — from his legendary Michigan career to life after the NBA. Cazzie shares wisdom on leadership, perseverance, and the evolution of the game, plus his candid thoughts on NIL, player empowerment, and what it means for today’s college athletes.And don’t miss the legendary story of Cazzie’s one-on-one battle with Oscar Robertson, a moment that defined his competitive spirit and earned the respect of one of the greatest to ever play the game.
This is Go Blue Hoops: where Michigan Basketball’s past, present, and future come together.
Here are your chapter titles and time stamps!
00:00:31 Welcome and introduction to the show from Tim McCormick
00:04:31 Analysis of the Wolverines season opening win over Oakland
00:13:24 Talking about Cazzie Russell
00:17:54 Cazzie Russell!
00:20:23 Cazzie’s Recruitment to Michigan
00:27:59 Cazzie plays one-on-one with Oscar Robertson!
00:31:46 Dinner at the coach’s house!
00:33:42 Getting in shape in the 1960’s
00:42:41 The iconic PHOTO
00:45:48 Cazzie’s thoughts on NIL
00:50:52 How Cazzie’s feeling in his 80’s
00:53:43 Social change in the 60’s and what it was like at Michigan at that time
00:58:48 Stories from Cazzie’s career in the NBA
01:03:08 FAST BREAK segment with Cazzie!!!
01:07:35 Thank you Cazzie!
01:07:55 Wake Forest preview and wrap up
🔹 Hosted by Tim McCormick
🔹 Produced by Chris Howard, Doug Cohen, Rick Kovacs, Mike Dietz, Tim McCormick
🔹 Subscribe for exclusive Michigan Basketball interviews, player breakdowns, and insider analysis all season long.
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