UM's Walton named to preseason All-Big Ten team

Michigan senior guard Derrick Walton Jr. was one of 10 players named to the preseason All-Big Ten basketball team Tuesday.

Walton’s selection marked the fifth consecutive season a Wolverine earned the honor, joining Trey Burke (2012-13), Glenn Robinson III (2013-14), Mitch McGary (2013-14) and Caris LeVert (2014-16).

Walton averaged a career-best 11.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 33 games last season and garnered all-conference third-team honors.

Wisconsin’s Nigel Hayes was chosen as the preseason player of the year and was the only unanimous selection voted by conference media.

Michigan opens its season Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. with an exhibition against Armstrong State.

2016-17 preseason all-Big Ten team

Malcolm Hill, G, Illinois

James Blackmon Jr., G, Indiana

Thomas Bryant, C, Indiana

Peter Jok, G, Iowa

Melo Trimble, G, Maryland

Derrick Walton Jr., G, Michigan

Caleb Swanigan, F, Purdue

Ethan Happ, F, Wisconsin

Nigel Hayes, F, Wisconsin

Bronson Koenig, F, Wisconsin