Michigan basketball gets March Madness help from ex-coach John Beilein

Former Michigan basketball coach John Beilein played an integral role in the hiring of current coach Dusty May , meeting with him and athletic director Warde Manuel in Florida during the interview process to help pitch the Wolverines' program. Two years and two Sweet 16 berths later, the College Basketball Hall of Famer remains a sounding board for May. As the current coach previewed the 1-seed Wolverines' upcoming Midwest regional semifinal matchup against 4-seed Alabama in Chicago on Friday (7:35 p.

m. , CBS) he lauded Beilein's godfather-like role – advisor, confidant, friend and fan. FULL CIRCLE: Sweet 16 crossroads for Nimari Burnett journey to Michigan basketball "We talk regularly," May said.

"He's always conscious about – he knows when my off days are, he knows when to call. He's sat in this seat, so he knows how many directions you're being pulled. But I enjoy it every single time.

He sends me texts, we talk, he sends great nuggets, sends some things, reminders of what to be looking out for. " Beilein took to social media recently to applaud U-M's efforts and remind fans, this doesn't happen easily. Michigan has now made nine Sweet 16s since 2013 − the most of any Big Ten team during that span.