University of Michigan basketball player Morez Johnson has officially committed to the 2026 NBA Draft, putting to rest any questions about whether he might return to Ann Arbor for another college season.
The forward posted impressive numbers during the previous campaign, recording 13.1 points per game along with 7.3 rebounds while appearing in all 40 contests for the championship-winning Wolverines, who finished with a 37-3 record. Johnson originally began his college career at Illinois, where he made just eight starting appearances before transferring to play under head coach Dusty May.
Johnson joins two other Michigan starters who are expected to be selected in the opening round of next month’s professional draft. Center Aday Mara could potentially be chosen in the lottery portion, while All-American Yaxel Lendeborg has earned recognition among Field Level Media’s Top 25 prospects.
“I am excited to chase my lifelong dream of playing in the NBA,” Johnson said. “Every stop along my journey has prepared me for this moment, and I’m extremely grateful.”
Coach May has been active in rebuilding the roster through the transfer portal as Michigan prepares to defend its national championship. The program previously found success with transfers, including Johnson and the other two top draft prospects currently on the team.
The incoming class includes Moustapha Thiam from Cincinnati, Jalen Reed from LSU, and J.P. Estrella from Tennessee, who will help form Michigan’s new core group.
