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Earlier this month, Michigan defeated UConn in the NCAA men’s basketball national championship game. Shortly after the Wolverines won the program’s first title since 1989, Michigan forward Morez Johnson Jr. announced he would enter the NBA draft.
Despite declaring himself a candidate for the NBA draft, Johnson maintained his NCAA eligibility throughout the process. However, he has until May 27 to opt out if he plans to return for his junior season. Johnson played at Illinois during the 2024-25 season before transferring to Michigan last offseason.
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Michigan’s Morez Johnson Jr. walks onto the field against UConn at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana on April 6, 2026. (Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated)
After joining Michigan, Johnson quickly became a key contributor, averaging the second-most points on the team. He also led the Wolverines in rebounding, averaging 7.3 per game.
Michigan head coach Dusty May eventually nicknamed Johnson “The Enforcer” and “Junkyard Dog”, a nod to his tenacity on the defensive end. Johnson was named to the Big Ten All-Defensive team.
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But Johnson’s offensive prowess didn’t take a backseat to his defensive strengths. His shooting from beyond the 3-point line improved as the season progressed.
Morez Johnson Jr. of the Michigan Wolverines cuts the net after defeating the UConn Huskies 69-63 in the national championship of the 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana on April 6, 2026. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Many early NBA projections gave Johnson a first-round grade. It’s unclear how much name, image and likeness (NIL) compensation he would get if he returned to Michigan or transferred elsewhere.
Johnson has been active on social media, interacting with his teammates as they plan to return to Michigan for another championship push.
Morez Johnson Jr. of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates after scoring in the second half against the UConn Huskies during the 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament national championship at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana on April 6, 2026. (Jamie Schwaberow/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
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Michigan added a key piece this week, with the transfer of Jalen Reed from LSU, On3 reported. Reed was limited during the 2025-26 season by an Achilles injury.
