This time, Max Bielfeldt was more relaxed. There was less pressure and fewer people. But what Biefeldt did today was more important than when he announced his college decision in March.

This time, his commitment to the Michigan basketball team came in writing.

The 6-foot-8 Bielfeldt officially became the third member of the Wolverines' 2011 recruiting class when he signed his National Letter of Intent, joining guards Trey Burke and Carlton Brundidge.

The signing wasn't as extravagant as Biefeldt's announcement on March 25, when a live web feed from the Peoria (Ill.) Notre Dame library showed him choose a Michigan cap over an Illinois cap during a press conference, but it was still festive.

“There was cookies and Michigan stuff all set up,” Bielfeldt said.

Bielfeldt gives Michigan another post player to go with sophomores Jordan Morgan, Evan Smotrycz, Jon Horford and Blake McLimans.

When he committed in March, he said the Michigan coaches viewed him in both the 4 and 5 roles in the Wolverines' offense.

He averaged 22.5 points, 11.4 rebounds and 4.6 blocks last year as his Peoria Notre Dame team went 28-1.

“We love the talent, character, toughness and work habits that Max brings to our basketball program,” Michigan coach John Beilein said in a statement. “His size and strength at approximately 6-8, 240 should help us a great deal around the basket.

“Max’s high basketball IQ, shooting ability and outstanding perimeter skill level allows him to have some versatility in his game. We plan on utilizing his talent in a variety of ways.”

Bielfeldt leaves Peoria Notre Dame as its all-time leading scorer (1,580 points) and rebounder (886).

Now, he is starting to focus on his future.

“I’m going to continue workouts on my own,” Bielfeldt said. “Anything they want me to start doing, I’m going to do and just continue going.”

Michael Rothstein covers Michigan basketball for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at (734) 623-2558, by e-mail at michaelrothstein@annarbor.com or follow along on Twitter @mikerothstein.