SI.com: Ex-Michigan basketball star Chris Webber listed as 'Most Improved' TV analyst, Desmond Howard an honorable mention

By Nick Baumgardner University of Michigan Sports Reporter

Posted on Wed, Dec 28, 2011 : 3:03 p.m.

Sports Illustrated sports media critic/columnist Richard Deitsch released his best and worst sports media list for 2011 Wednesday, and a pair of former Michigan greats were given mention.

Former Michigan basketball standout Chris Webber was named Deitsch's Most Improved sports television studio analyst, while ex-Michigan football great, and Heisman Trophy winner, Desmond Howard was named as an honorable mention in the category.

Viewers say Desmond Howard has improved as a studio analyst.

Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.com

Currently a studio analyst for NBA TV and TNT, Webber impressed Deitsch with his dedication to being a professional television broadcaster.

"Webber has become a sharp studio analyst," Deitsch wrote. "Watching him this month on NBA TV's preview shows, he has great depth about the league and doesn't sugarcoat his opinions. He's a smart guy who acts like someone who takes broadcasting as a profession rather than a hobby."

Howard, who continues to be a fixture on ESPN's "College GameDay," was given honorable mention status — but received a special note from Deitsch for his performance this season.

"While I listed Desmond Howard in the honorable mention category, he received the most votes when I asked people on Twitter which sports broadcaster had improved the most," he wrote. "Indeed, he looked far more comfortable on the set of College GameDay this year."

Tags: Chris Webber, Desmond Howard,

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Nick Baumgardner covers Michigan sports for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at 734-623-2514, by email at nickbaumgardner@annarbor.com and followed on Twitter @nickbaumgardner.