Michigan basketball coach John Beilein supports Brady Hoke, Dave Brandon

One can never say that the Michigan athletic family is not close.

Michigan basketball coach John Beilein proved that the Michigan family is just that, a big family that supports each other even through the worst of times.

Unlike the football program, the basketball program is headed the opposite direction under Beilein, a positive direction. Coming off another deep NCAA Tournament run, Belein and his squad are preparing for another season and having to deal with the losses of Nik Stauskas, Glenn Robinson III and Mitch McGary all heading to the NBA.

However, that didn't stop Beilein from praising Michigan football coach Brady Hoke during his opening statement when he met with reporters on Thursday.

"If my sons were high school football players right now, I would love for them to play for Brady Hoke and this staff," said Beilein. "I have watched them and I am certain that every day they have the best intentions and care deeply for their players, both on and off the field."

Also under fire is athletic director Dave Brandon. Who Beilein also praised in the same opening statement.

"I know I am speaking for all the head coaches, and I am certain of their agreement with me on this, when I say Dave Brandon has had an incredibly positive impact on this athletic department," Beilein said. "He has been a great leader and mentor to so many of us in his transition here.

"What I think is best about what Dave has done is how he has championed the student-athlete, their experience and their welfare. When Dave steps down one day, and I hope it is later rather than sooner, that is going to be a tremendous loss for this university and athletic program."

Although Beilein has seen recent success as he heads into his eighth season as head coach at Michigan, him and Hoke share many similarities as to the struggles both squads shared four seasons into their time on campus. Like Hoke, Beilein saw his fair share of job security questions until he was able to start winning.

For Hoke, Beilein wants him to stay the course.

"I text him a couple of times a week, at least, and we've been very supportive of each other," Beilein said. "I can go back 40 years of times like this and how persistence will pay off.

"Just to keep your head up and stay positive is the general message."