Michigan Wolverines point guard Elliot Cadeau, the Most Outstanding Player of the recent Final Four, has announced that he will not enter the 2026 NBA Draft and will return to Ann Arbor for another season.
Why he stayed
His brief exploration of professional opportunities ended without an NBA combine invitation, a clear indication that the league was not yet ready to bring him in.
Cadeau framed the decision as a strategic move to generate momentum for the upcoming campaign, allowing him to build on the success of a championship‑winning year.
During that season he posted a career‑high average of 10.4 points per game, erupted for 19 points in the title‑clinching victory over UConn, and was celebrated as the tournament’s most outstanding player.
His return adds a proven playmaker to a roster that already boasts a national championship, giving the Wolverines a strong chance to defend their title and maintain their momentum.
College basketball analyst Jon Rothstein highlighted the significance of the move, noting that Cadeau’s choice reflects a growing trend of elite collegians electing to prioritize development over an early professional jump.
With one year of eligibility remaining, Cadeau is expected to play a central role as Michigan looks to translate its recent triumph into another deep run.