Surging up the left wing and taking on a defender, graduate midfielder Shuma Sasaki garnered “MVP Shuma! MVP Shuma!” chants from the crowd. This reaction proved to be a trend in Sasaki’s first game for Michigan Thursday evening, along with his ability to create chances for his new team.

After playing four seasons with the University of the Cumberlands, Sasaki joined the Wolverines as a graduate transfer. Scoring 12 goals and notching 25 assists over his four-year career, Sasaki started 64 games with the Patriots before arriving at Michigan.

So in a 1-1 draw against Notre Dame, Michigan’s sole goal came late in the first half thanks to Sasaki. Junior defender Will Baker played a long ball over the top which Sasaki controlled, cut onto his left foot and hammered into the far side of the ne

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