Grad Transfer Forward Justin Pierce to Visit Michigan Next Weekend

Michigan is expected to host William and Mary grad transfer forward Justin Pierce this upcoming Friday and Saturday, reports Josh Henschke of 247 Sports.

The 6-foot-7, 215-pounder was selected for the All-Colonial Athletic Association third-team the past two seasons. He earned this by averaging 14.9 points, 8.9 rebounds and 4.1 assists last year.

This visit is possible preparation for the departure of either Charles Matthews, Ignas Brazdeikis and Jordan Poole, if not all three. They have until May 29 to cut ties with their agents, but this sudden move suggests that John Beilein and his staff is preparing for the worst.

Assuming all leave, Michigan will have two open scholarships for next season, even with the additions of Jalen Wilson and Cole Bajema.

According to Jeff Borzello of ESPN, Pierce had heard from at least 26 Power 5 schools as of March 16, including Arizona, Gonzaga, Florida, Wisconsin and Purdue.

Pierce is a decently efficient player, posting a 106 offensive rating last season. While over a 10 point drop off from the previous season, his usage was also increased. He’s a decent 3-point shooter (35% in his career), and posts high assist rates.

He also ranked in the top-75 out of all national players in defensive rebounding rate, grabbing 24.4% of opponent misses.

While his shooting wouldn’t replace either Brazdeikis or Poole, his size, length, passing and rebounding would do well in the place of Matthews.

Stay tuned for updates on Pierce’s trip to Ann Arbor next weekend.