Michigan’s basketball program is currently grappling with a significant setback as Khani Rooths, their top 2024 prospect, has opted to decommit from the Wolverines. Rooths, a 6-foot-7 power forward from IMG Academy, had previously made a verbal commitment to Michigan in mid-November but has now chosen to alter his plans.
As the No. 31 player in the country, Rooths was a pivotal addition to Michigan’s 2024 class, which was ranked No. 20 prior to his departure. His decision to decommit follows the recent dismissal of head coach Juwan Howard, hinting at potential repercussions on the program’s recruitment efforts.
With Rooths’ departure, the remaining prospects in Michigan’s 2024 class consist of Durral “Phat Phat” Brooks, the Mr. Michigan basketball winner, and point guard Christian Anderson from Oak Hill Academy in Virginia. While these players possess talent, they do not carry the distinction of being top-100 recruits, leaving the Wolverines with a significant void to address.
It comes as no complete surprise that Rooths has had a change of heart, as his commitment to Michigan was notably influenced by his relationship with Howard. Despite the disappointing 8-24 season experienced by the team, the worst in its history, Rooths had steadfastly remained committed. Nonetheless, with Howard’s departure, it was only a matter of time before Rooths reconsidered his decision.
The timing of Rooths’ decommitment aligns with the announcement that Dug McDaniel, Michigan’s leading scorer and facilitator, will be entering the transfer portal. In addition, freshman George Washington III has also entered the portal, raising additional concerns about the team’s stability.
When Rooths initially selected Michigan over schools such as Georgia and Florida State, he had over a dozen Division I offers, including from Big Ten rivals Maryland and Indiana. His decision to decommit represents a considerable loss for the Wolverines, who must now regroup and focus their efforts on securing top talent for the future.
Overall, Michigan’s basketball program is currently confronting a period of uncertainty and transition, as it grapples with the aftermath of Howard’s departure and the loss of key players. The forthcoming weeks will be critical as the Wolverines endeavour to rebuild and fortify their roster under new leadership.