The first day I was in Ann Arbor as the new full-time radio broadcaster, that was Media Day,

in advance of the 2019-2020 season, of course, Juan Howard's first as the head coach.

And I'll be honest, that day from my perspective was a complete blur.

I was just trying to meet as many people as I could while reconnecting with those who were

coming back, either players or staff members,

from the previous postseason when I filled in, as I was transitioning and trying to learn as

much as I could for this new incredible opportunity. That day, I carried around a notebook,

but it was basically useless. I didn't take hardly any notes. I was just trying to talk and

meet and shake hands and get to know people.

Mostly, just getting my bearings. But you know those things you hear that just get ingrained in your

mind? Those things you just remember, you don't need to write down for future reference.

There were a few of those on that day. One of them was Phil Martelli when he was asked about the new

freshman Franz Wagner. People, of course, knew the last name Wagner. Mo was incredible. And

a lot of people were excited about Franz's potential, but no one really knew what to expect at that

point. I don't have the direct quote. I don't have the exact words,

but I remember the key takeaways of Phil Martelli describing Franz Wagner. Different,

rain man, get your tickets, and the one that I always, always think of first, savant.

Now, Phil Martelli's a straight shooter.

In a world of coach speak, he is a welcomed change of pace.

But I did have that thought.

This is the first time I'm interacting with Phil Martelli.

First time he is in an official media scrum as a member of Michigan men's basketball.

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