A Global Prep Tour
In an unprecedented move for a collegiate program, the Michigan Wolverines are set to embark on a nine‑day European tour this August, with stops in Lithuania and Croatia. The itinerary, funded entirely by private supporters through the University of Michigan’s Athletic Development department, will feature three high‑profile exhibition games against national‑team opponents and a Serbian club side, Mega Superbet.
Head coach Dusty May outlined the tour’s dual purpose: to deepen team chemistry through intensive bonding and to provide the squad with ten extra preseason practices that will better position the Wolverines for the 2026‑27 campaign. "This trip is about more than just games; it’s about building a foundation that will carry us through the season," May said in a statement.
A Tradition of International Exposure
The upcoming tour marks the program’s fourth foreign excursion, following previous trips to Belgium, Italy, Spain, and a combined France‑Greece itinerary. Each journey has been designed to expose the team to different styles of play and cultural perspectives, a strategy that the athletic department believes enhances both athletic and personal development.
The schedule begins with arrival in Lithuania, where the Wolverines will hold a series of practice sessions before facing off against Lithuanian national‑team squads. After a brief stay, the team will travel to Croatia for additional workouts and a marquee matchup against Mega Superbet, a Serbian club known for its competitive spirit and talented roster.
Beyond the Court
Beyond the basketball action, the tour includes cultural activities intended to foster camaraderie and broaden the players’ global outlook. From local culinary experiences to guided tours of historic sites, the itinerary blends sport with immersive experiences that coaches hope will translate into tighter on‑court cohesion.
University of Michigan officials emphasized that the tour aligns with the institution’s broader mission to develop well‑rounded student‑athletes. By leveraging private funding and strategic partnerships, the program aims to set a new benchmark for collegiate basketball preparation on the world stage.