Why this weekend is important for Michigan's pursuit of Olivier Nkamhoua

Michigan Basketball is facing an important weekend in terms of its pursuit of Tennessee transfer Olivier Nkamhoua.

Why is this weekend important, one might ask, when the Wolverines plan to host the forward on June 2?

A visit elsewhere could prove to be crucial.

Where things stand now, there is still confidence that the Wolverines hold a slight edge in landing Nkamhoua. While the recruitment process has remained fluid, the Wolverines appeared to be very close to landing the forward shortly after he entered the portal.

However, things took a turn when he decided he wanted to pursue the professional route and there was heavy speculation that he would prefer to take the professional route rather than return to college.

After going through the G League combine and not earning an invite to the NBA Combine, word came out that Nkamhoua wanted to take a visit to West Virginia.

Nkamhoua followed it up with a visit to Ann Arbor on June 2.

Without stating the obvious, if West Virginia doesn't secure a commitment from Nkamhoua this week, the door remains open for the Wolverines to seal the deal when he visits on June 2.

The Mountaineers have had a strong transfer portal cycle, closing on some big-time talent, including securing help at Nkamhoua's position.

It's clear, when looking at the rosters of the two teams, Nkamhoua's path to playing time is much easier with the Wolverines, who he would likely be a day-one starter for the program.

Word on the street is that the Wolverines have the slight edge but this weekend will prove to be important as to whether the process ends early or it gives Juwan Howard and staff a chance to swing for the fences during his visit.