Dusty May, who once led the Michigan Wolverines to a national championship, shocked basketball fans when he announced the Dallas Mavericks' ninth overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft.
A Shocking Draft Night
The pick was not the consensus favorite; analysts had projected prospects like Yaxel Lendeborg or Aday Mara to go earlier, and many expected Johnson to remain in college or be selected later.
But May saw something else. At 6‑foot‑11, Johnson combines defensive instincts with the ability to stretch the floor, a combination that intrigued the coaching staff during the NBA draft combine.
Johnson’s statistical profile from his final college season reads 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game, with shooting splits of 65.3% on two‑point attempts, 34.3% from three and 78% from the free‑throw line.
A Versatile Big Man for Dallas
His toughness and willingness to defend any position make him a flexible piece for a Mavericks roster that already boasts the No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, the 2025 draft sensation.
Looking Forward
With the new additions, Dallas aims to blend youthful athleticism with veteran savvy, positioning itself as a contender in the Western Conference.