Robin Benzig, a 19-year old German native often draws comparisons to Dirk Nowitzki of the Dallas Mavericks. Not just because he's tall and German. Benzig is 6'10" and prefers to take jump shots from the perimeter. He's very, very raw, though.

It would sound like a match for Michigan coach John Beilein, whose system thrives with big men who play on the perimeter. Kevin Pittsnogle and D'orr Fischer both were excellent when not forced to play inside.

Unfortunately for Michigan and Benzig, the NCAA has found the academic qualifications of Benzig lacking.

"We felt Robin had a very good chance of qualification, but in the end the NCAA Eligibility Center found him to be just short of eligibility to receive a scholarship from any Division I university. While we were aware of the risk involved with this signing and we are disappointed for Robin, it does not deter our confidence in finding the right student-athletes for the future of this basketball program."

It is, however, another setback for Michigan in the John Beilein era. Benzig was a perfect fit for his system, and leaves the Wolverines lacking in players in the post.