L.J. Cason, the Michigan Wolverines guard who has been sidelined by a torn ACL suffered in February, announced his entry into the transfer portal this week.
A Coaching Change at the Top
Shortly after the announcement, head coach Dusty May confirmed his move to the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, ending his tenure with the Wolverines.
Cason’s injury has kept him out of action for the majority of the upcoming 2026‑27 season, though he remains optimistic about a full recovery and a potential return to the court.
A Quiet Leader in Rehabilitation
During his rehab, Cason has taken on a quasi‑assistant coaching role, helping younger teammates while still contributing to practice sessions.
In his last season, he averaged 8.4 points, 2.4 assists and 1.9 rebounds per game, numbers that reflect his impact beyond the stat sheet.
A New Era Under Mike Boynton Jr.
Former assistant coach Mike Boynton Jr. has been promoted to full‑time head coach, inheriting a roster that now features nine newcomers, including six freshmen and three transfers.
Cason emphasized the importance of setting a culture for those newcomers, promising to bring the same standards he cultivated in Ann Arbor to his next program.
While he will miss most of the upcoming season, Cason said he plans to stay ready for a comeback and to help shape the environment wherever he lands.