Michigan basketball series with Oakland ends Saturday, won't be renewed

The series, which was originally put together by former Michigan coach Tommy Amaker and Kampe, began during the 2007-08 campaign — Beilein's first with the Wolverines.

The set featured two home games for Michigan at Crisler Arena (2007-08, 2010-11) and two games at The Palace (2008-09, 2011-12).

The Wolverines have won all three games, with an average victory margin of 15.7 points.

"We traditionally want to play our games at Crisler (Arena) as often as possible," Beilein said of non-conference scheduling. "I'm not saying we won't go back to The Palace if it's a type of situation that we really think benefits Michigan 100 percent.

"But right now, I think this is the end of a great four-year series."

On Thursday, Kampe said he'd have like to see the series renewed, but explained how he respected his decision to call it off.

"John does not want to play it, and I respect him for that because he's honest," said Kampe, whose Oakland club is looking for a third consecutive NCAA Tournament bid this season. "He told me, 'Greg, you're good enough to beat us, and Michigan fans wouldn't understand (if Michigan lost) to Oakland.

"It's not a good game for Michigan, was basically what he said. I don't like it, but I respect the fact that he would tell me that."

Want to stay connected to Wolverine basketball in your Facebook newsfeed? “Like” AnnArbor.com's Michigan Basketball News & Views.