The University of Michigan’s men’s basketball program has turned to the transfer portal to plug the gaps left by departing frontcourt stalwarts, even as questions linger about the futures of Morez Johnson Jr. and Aday Mara.
A Strategic Overhaul
Moustapha Thiam arrives from Cincinnati, where he posted 12.8 points per game, 7.1 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per contest. Jalen Reed, a recent LSU transfer, averaged 9.5 points and 5.7 rebounds in six appearances, while JP Estrella contributed 10.0 points and 5.4 rebounds at Tennessee. Their arrivals are designed to reinforce a frontcourt that lost Yaxel Lendeborg after a single season.
On3’s transfer portal rankings place Michigan at No. 7 among the nation’s most successful programs in this cycle, underscoring the impact of Dusty May’s recruiting strategy. The Wolverines also bring back guard Elliot Cadeau and forward Trey McKenney, while LJ Cason works his way back from a torn ACL.
The program’s recent track record of turning frontcourt talent into NBA draft picks has made Ann Arbor an attractive destination for big men. Both Mara and Johnson have seen their draft stock rise, a trend that Dusty May hopes to continue with the new additions.
Looking ahead, the coaching staff is eyeing a dynamic wing to potentially replace Lendeborg in the starting lineup. Five‑star combo guard Brandon McCoy Jr. is among the candidates who could fill that role and add further depth.