Michigan forward Morez Johnson Jr. to keep his name in NBA Draft

BY ALEJANDRO LOPEZ

One of Michigan’s standout forwards is expected to remain in the NBA Draft.

Projected top-20 pick, Morez Johnson Jr, is expected to remain in the 2026 NBA Draft, per ESPN.

Morez Johnson to ESPN: "From Day One, Coach May told us he was going to help develop us on and off the court, and the goal was to win a national championship. We accomplished that mission."

"I am excited to chase my lifelong dream of playing in the NBA."https://t.co/4n5PSBZf5c

— Jeff Borzello (@jeffborzello) May 19, 2026

“From Day One, Coach [Dusty] May told us he was going to help develop us on and off the court, and the goal was to win a national championship. We accomplished that mission,” Johnson told ESPN. “I am excited to chase my lifelong dream of playing in the NBA.”

The 6-foot-9 forward was a key piece in Michigan’s championship run, averaging 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game.

Michigan’s front court of Aday Mara, Yaxel Lendeborg and Johnson are all expected to be picked in the first round, according to tankathon.

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