Different looks

Fans will get peek at men's new style

Something new invades Ann Arbor tomorrow, and it's not New Coke, Crystal Pepsi or even a Flaming Moe.

The Michigan men's basketball team shows off it's 'new' flavor tomorrow at the 'Maize and Blue' scrimmage at Crisler Arena. Tipoff starts about 20 minutes after the Michigan-Northwestern football game.

The Wolverines not only have five new heralded freshmen, but new uniforms and a new style of play to show off.

The scrimmage will give Michigan fans and coaches excellent view of the newcomers along with the offseason improvements of the upperclassmen. Michigan coach Brian Ellerbe will split his roster in half and pit the two teams against each other.

DANNY KALICK/Daily Michigan forward Chris Young will show the results of his offseason workouts tomorrow at the Maize and Blue scrimmage.

"It a really good opportunity to get a gauge of what your guys are capable of and to get them in a game situation," Ellerbe said.

All eyes are on Ellerbe's top-ranked incoming class with only two seniors on the squad. Ann Arborites will have another crack at seeing Ann Arbor Pioneer's prep star LaVell Blanchard at forward. Three freshmen guards - 6-6 Jamal Crawford, 6-4 Kevin Gaines and 6-5 Gavin Groninger will along with junior Leon Jones will look to battle for the one and two positions.

Senior Pete Vignier and junior Josh Asselin will lead the frontcourt along with backups Chris Young and newcomer Leland Anderson.

But the real treat for fans who attend the scrimmage may be all the extras associated with the event.

Michigan forward Brandon Smith, who is still recovering from a foot injury that may leave him out until January, will guide the "official" unveiling of the team's new apparel. The uniforms have been on sale at area stores since last week.

The change of the style stems from an Athletic Department decision two years ago to change to the "Block M" pattern on Michigan athletic wear. Nike propelled the men's basketball use of the 'M' when they contacted Ellerbe about a possible change two years ago. After receiving input from the Michigan players, Nike came up with a final design.

The pre-scrimmage ceremony will also feature introductions of all the players and coaches and a new Crisler sound system.

The Michigan Dance Team will make its 'official' debut as well. The club team will now span the sidelines of every home game this season. At halftime the dancers will strut their stuff for the crowd. Students can also participate in a shootout on the floor where they can possibly win free tuition for a year among with other prizes.

Having the football game right before the scrimmage isn't a negative either Ellerbe said, as it could actually improve attendance.

"It's a positive thing. It's very convenient for the fans to just walk right over from the Big House to Crisler," Ellerbe said. "The maize and blue scrimmage is something we're going to try to do every year."

11-05-99