Michigan Basketball Adds 7-Foot German Center Malick Kordel to 2025 Roster
The University of Michigan wolverines men’s basketball team has finalized its roster for the 2025-2026 season with the addition of a towering international prospect. Malick Kordel, a 7-foot center hailing from Germany, has officially signed with the Wolverines [[2]].
Kordel’s Journey to Ann Arbor
Kordel’s path to Michigan involved playing for the Frankfurt Skyliners junior team in Germany’s third-tier league. During his time there, he showcased his potential by averaging 11.3 points and 7.9 rebounds in just over 24 minutes per game. His performance caught the eye of several college programs, but ultimately, he chose to join Dusty May and the Wolverines [[1]].
Did you Know? Kordel only started playing competitive basketball in 2021, having previously focused on handball [[3]].
The 2025 Recruiting class
Malick Kordel is the fifth freshman to commit to Michigan’s 2025 class. He joins a talented group that includes five-star recruit Trey McKinney, four-star prospects Winters Grady and Oscar Goodman, and three-star player Patrick Liburd. This influx of new talent is expected to contribute substantially to the Wolverines’ future success.
dusty May’s Recruiting Success
Securing Kordel’s commitment is another significant achievement for Michigan’s head coach, Dusty May. In his second year, May has demonstrated his ability to attract top talent both through traditional recruiting and the transfer portal. The addition of four transfers for the upcoming season further highlights his proactive approach to building a competitive team.
Recruiting Competition
Kordel’s decision to join Michigan came after considering offers from several other prominent programs. He had official visits to Iowa and Xavier [[3]] and also drew interest from Butler and Villanova. His choice underscores the appeal of michigan’s basketball program under Coach May’s leadership.
Frontcourt depth
Kordel’s arrival bolsters an already extraordinary frontcourt for the Wolverines. He will be joining Yaxel Lendeborg, the nation’s top transfer prospect, along with Aday Mara, a 7-foot-3 center from UCLA, and Morez Johnson Jr., a 6-foot-9 power forward from Illinois. This depth provides Michigan with a variety of options and considerable size in the paint.
Pro Tip: A strong frontcourt is crucial for success in college basketball, providing rebounding, scoring, and defensive presence.
Malick Kordel’s Statistics
Team | League | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Minutes Per Game |
---|---|---|---|---|
Frankfurt Skyliners Junior | German Third-Tier League | 11.3 | 7.9 | 24+ |
The Evolution of International Basketball Recruiting
The recruitment of international players has become increasingly prevalent in college basketball. Programs are expanding their reach globally to find talented players who can contribute to their teams. This trend has led to a more diverse and competitive landscape in the sport.
Players from countries like Germany, France, Spain, and Australia are now regularly featured on NCAA rosters. Their unique skill sets and experiences often bring a diffrent dimension to the game, enhancing the overall quality of college basketball.
frequently Asked Questions About Malick Kordel
What position does Malick Kordel play?
Malick Kordel plays center.
Where is Malick Kordel from?
Malick Kordel is from Germany.
When will Malick Kordel join the Michigan Wolverines?
Malick Kordel will join the team for the 2025-2026 season.
Who is the head coach of Michigan Basketball?
Dusty May is the head coach of the Michigan Wolverines basketball team.
What other players are joining Michigan’s frontcourt?
Yaxel Lendeborg, Aday Mara, and Morez Johnson Jr. are also part of Michigan’s frontcourt.
What are your expectations for Malick Kordel’s impact on the michigan Wolverines? How will the addition of international talent change the landscape of college basketball?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to share this article with your fellow basketball enthusiasts!