Estrella Shines as Michigan Opens Basketball Season 1-1

Michigan opened its 2026-27 season with an 84-68 home win over Oakland, then fell by eight points to No. 4 UConn in Boston. Eleven Wolverines have played so far, with nine appearing in both games.

Forward JP Estrella has made a strong early impression, averaging 17 points and more than 10 rebounds per game. He is shooting 81% from the floor, giving him a double-double average, though he has yet to make a three-pointer.

Guard Elliot Cadeau has had a difficult start after entering the season with high expectations as a key member of last year’s national championship team. He has more turnovers than assists, is shooting 25% overall and has made 11% of his attempts from beyond the arc.

The early assessment cautions that Cadeau’s struggles need not continue and that a “stock down” label is not a judgment on his season or the team. With a new coach leading Michigan, fans are urged to be patient as the Wolverines work through early-season challenges.