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Eli Brooks says he’s still considering return to Michigan for fifth year
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Michigan’s season came to an end late Tuesday night, with the Wolverines falling 51-49 to UCLA in the Elite Eight. In a normal year, the loss would’ve marked the end of Eli Brooks’ career in Ann Arbor. It still might.
But because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the NCAA is allowing all winter student-athletes to have an additional year of eligibility. That has given Brooks something to think about as he plans for his future.
Following Tuesday’s loss, Brooks was asked if he will be returning for another season with the Wolverines. As you might expect, he wasn’t committal one way or the other, leaving the door open to a potential fifth season in Ann Arbor.
Asked about whether or not he'll exercise his COVID extra eligibility year, Eli Brooks says he's discussed it with his family but hasn't made a final decision.
— Daniel Dash (@DanielDash_) March 31, 2021
Eli Brooks has not come to a conclusion about returning for another year at Michigan.
“That’s a conversation to be had in our exit meeting,” he said.
— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) March 31, 2021
Brooks was a versatile player for Michigan this past season, averaging 9.5 points, 3.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game while shooting 42.6% from the floor. He ended the season with 8 points, 5 boards and 4 dimes in Tuesday’s loss to UCLA.
Over his four-year career in Ann Arbor, Brooks has played in 125 games for Michigan. He’s posted averaged of 5.8 points 2.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists during his time with the program and averaged career-highs in points (10.6) and rebounds (3.7) during the 2019-20 season.
A return would provide Juwan Howard with the depth and experience needed for another long postseason run, but there are plenty of other factors at play. Brooks will have some time to consider his options.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB