“Academic Suspension Sidelines Wolverines’ Starting Point Guard for Six Big Ten Away Games”
The Wolverines’ starting point guard was absent for six away games in the Big Ten due to an academic suspension, significantly weakening an already sparse backcourt. This setback played a part in U-M’s struggles towards the end of the season, with the team enduring a winless streak during McDaniel’s absence, ultimately culminating in a loss to Penn State in the Big Ten Tournament’s opening round.
McDaniel, who had refrained from public statements since his suspension announcement on January 10th, finally addressed the media during the Big Ten Tournament’s postgame locker room access policy.
Reflecting on his season, McDaniel expressed disappointment at its course but also gratitude for the experiences gained alongside his teammates. Details surrounding the suspension remained vague, with Juwan Howard and the Wolverines citing McDaniel’s need to fulfill “various academic objectives” as the reason. His reinstatement for road games in late February followed significant academic progress.
During his media appearance, McDaniel took ownership of his role in the disciplinary action.
