Michigan Basketball: Breaking down 2023-24 non-conference schedule
Events/Tournament Games
Gavitt Tip Off
November 13 @ St. Johns
Rick Pitino is back in the Big East with St. Johns and will get an opportunity to get a splashy non-conference win early on in the Gavitt Games. Pitino turned over the roster this offseason, with just about every major piece moving on, so how quickly they’re able to gel will determine what type of competition they provide Michigan here. This one will be played at Madison Square Garden, giving both programs an opportunity to prove themselves in one of basketball’s most iconic venues.
Battle 4 Atlantis
The annual Battle 4 Atlantis has become a Thanksgiving weekend staple, celebrating its 12th year in 2023-24. Michigan’s opponent for the opening game of the event has yet to be determined, but it will feature some relevant programs, including North Carolina, Villanova, Arkansas, Memphis, Oklahoma, Stanford, and Northern Iowa.
Not only will the Battle 4 Atlantis be a great resume-booster, but the Bahamas have also been kind to Juwan Howard in the past. The Wolverines won the event back in 2019, beating UNC, Iowa State, and Gonzaga.
Jumpman Invitational
December 19 vs. Florida (Charlotte)
The Jumpman Invitational enters its second year of existence in 2023, showcasing four of Jordan Brand’s top sponsor programs. Fittingly taking place in Charlotte, Michigan will square off against Florida, while UNC-Oklahoma collide in the other game. It will be the first meeting between the two programs since they met in the 2019 NCAA Tournament’s second round, when Jordan Poole piled 19 points on the Gators to help Michigan advance.
Will 2023-24 be the season Michigan gets back on track under Howard or another underwhelming campaign in Ann Arbor? The non-conference slate feels extra important, as it will not only provide opportunities to boost their NCAA Tournament resume but generate momentum for an unforgiving Big Ten slate. How the Wolverines handle several land mines and their showcase events will go a long way in determining their ’23-’24 fortunes.