The Michigan basketball team officially has the fifth member of its 2012 recruiting class.

Pickerington (Ohio) Central guard Caris Levert, who gave a verbal commitment to the Wolverines in May, signed his financial aid paperwork on Friday.

"Caris has so many of the qualities that we look for in our recruiting at Michigan," coach John Beilein said in a statement. "He works hard both in classroom and on the court. He is still just 17 years old, so his potential is outstanding.

"With his speed and quickness it not only gives us another player who can penetrate opposing defenses, but it will also be an asset for us on the defensive end. We are hoping that he will have great success as both a scorer and a defender. We are very excited about coaching Caris in the years ahead."

The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 18.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists while leading Pickerington Central to a 26-2 record during his senior season. He originally signed with Ohio, but was given his release from the Bobcat program after coach John Groce left for Illinois.

"I'm very blessed and thankful for having an opportunity to come to the University of Michigan," LeVert said in the statement. "I look forward to working hard every day in the Maize and Blue."

The Wolverines' 2012 recruiting class also includes five-star forward Glenn Robinson III, four-star power forward Mitch McGary, four-star shooting guard Nik Stauskas and three-star point guard Spike Albrecht.