Will Tschetter can be impactful next season, even if he doesn’t play starting minutes.
In the fast-paced world of college basketball, every team looks for that special type of player who not only possesses skill but also binds the group together with an intangible presence. For the Michigan Wolverines , forward Will Tschetter could very well be that “glue guy” as they head into the 2024 season.
Tschetter, who started six games last season, initially caught the eye of basketball scouts with his prolific three-point shooting during his high school days. This skill translated well into the collegiate level during the 2023-24 campaign , where he showcased impressive accuracy, averaging 6.8 points per game and 2.4 rebounds per game, and he shot a team- and career-best 51.9 percent (28-for-54) from beyond the arc and 58.2 percent from the field.
Despite these flashes throughout the season, Tschetter’s contribution to the Wolverines was not consistently in the limelight, as he logged only seven double-digit scoring games last season.
The journey to becoming a pivotal player for Michigan wasn’t straightforward for Tschetter. Early in his college career, former head coach Juwan Howard approached him with a difficult conversation about potentially redshirting his first year—a suggestion that could unsettle many young athletes. However, Tschetter’s response was unexpectedly positive and mature. He agreed with Howard, seeing it as an opportunity to develop without losing a year of eligibility.
Sitting behind Caleb Houston, Terrance Williams II and Hunter Dickinson, that year of growth not only sharpened his skills but also deepened his commitment to the team’s success over personal accolades.
Fast forward to recent games, and Tschetter’s role as a team-centric player shined through vividly. In one of the few bright spots of the season against the ranked Wisconsin Badgers at home, his ability to perform under pressure was on full display. Following a timeout, he nailed a crucial three-pointer that put Michigan ahead. Moments later, he was right there to put back a missed layup, extending the lead. He then added to his total, knocking down another three-pointer for eight points in six-and-a-half minutes to help the Wolverines take down Wisconsin.
So when Howard was let go by Warde Manuel in March, it deeply hit Tschetter.
“I was pretty sad (when Coach Howard was fired), I am not going to lie,” Tschetter said on Defend the Block . “The relationship we built over the last three years is pretty special. He definitely gave me the opportunity not a lot of programs would have, being a small-town kid, so I am forever indebted to him for that.”
Beyond the court, Tschetter’s influence stretches into the locker room. Known for his relentless work ethic and leadership qualities, he has often been described as a natural leader. This aspect of his personality is crucial for a team, particularly in a transition phase under new head coach Dusty May. Tschetter’s experience and dedication are vital in fostering team chemistry and setting a standard for commitment and hard work. Not to mention, Michigan will likely feature at least 10 new faces next year, so having prior experience with the program will sure make him unique next season.
“I think the main thing is a level of commitment across the board,” Tschetter said on Defend the Block . “Everyone watching film, everyone showing up on time. As a leader of a team, you need to have a little more grasp of that. Do I wish I had taken a little more responsibility with that? Maybe try to hold guys more accountable? Of course. But I think that’s something you can carry into our next season. Making sure the guys are absolutely all in. You need to live, eat and breathe Michigan basketball during the season. Sometimes leading by example or a few guys doing that isn’t enough. Making sure that is a point of emphasis in the future.”
“And making sure there is consistency. There are days that we come out, like Wisconsin, had a five-game losing streak before and didn’t win a game after, but we beat Wisconsin at home, or beating St. Johns at MSG. We showed we can do it, but we weren’t consistent. Whether that was our daily preparation or something else, being consistent day in and day out is really hard to do, but staying focused is the main thing.”
The concept of the “glue guy” in sports is often understated but crucial. It’s not just about the flashy plays or high-scoring games; it’s about making the right play at the right time, lifting the team in tough moments, and maintaining a positive, hardworking atmosphere both on and off the court. Tschetter embodies these qualities. His journey from a redshirt freshman to a key contributor is a testament to his resilience and team-first attitude.
For the Wolverines, having Tschetter as the glue guy means more than just having a player who can shoot or rebound well. It means having a player who can keep the team focused and together, who can inspire and lead by example, and who can be relied on when the game is on the line. As Michigan looks forward to the 2024 season, Tschetter’s role will be pivotal in their quest for success, not just through his individual performances, but through his ability to hold a brand new team together next season as they face challenges ahead.