Michigan's Morez Johnson staying in NBA draft

Field Level Media|published: 05/19/2026, 3:58pm EDT

Michigan forward Morez Johnson Jr. (21) celebrates a play against Wisconsin during the first half of Big Ten Tournament semifinal at United Center in Chicago on Saturday, March 14, 2026.

Michigan forward Morez Johnson ended speculation he could return to the Wolverines for his junior season by entering the 2026 NBA Draft.

Johnson averaged 13.1 points and 7.3 rebounds last season and played in 40 games for national champion Michigan (37-3). He spent his freshman season at Illinois but transferred to play for head coach Dusty May after making only eight starts for the Fighting Illini.

Johnson is one of three Michigan starters projected to be first-round picks in next month's draft. Center Aday Mara is a potential lottery pick and All-American Yaxel Lendeborg is ranked 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."

May restocked for Michigan's national title defense through the transfer portal, where the program previously unearthed Johnson and all three of the Wolverines' top prospects in the 2026 draft.

Moustapha Thiam (Cincinnati), Jalen Reed (LSU) and J.P. Estrella (Tennessee) are part of the new guard at Michigan.

--Field Level Media