Morez Johnson Jr. heard his name called with the ninth overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, sealing a move to the Dallas Mavericks that many had anticipated. The selection marks the culmination of a rapid ascent that began when he left Illinois for Ann Arbor, where he quickly became known as Michigan’s ‘junkyard dog.’
At Michigan, Johnson transformed into a versatile frontcourt presence, averaging 13.1 points and 7.1 rebounds per game while shooting 34.3 percent from three‑point range and raising his free‑throw percentage to 78.2 percent. His statistical leap was matched by a physical evolution that earned him a reputation for relentless effort and defensive intensity.
Coach Dusty May, who oversaw Johnson’s breakout season, praised the forward’s toughness, basketball IQ and capacity to win games, projecting him as a player who will thrive in the NBA’s competitive environment. May highlighted Johnson’s ability to impact the game beyond the box score, noting his defensive versatility and rebounding tenacity.
Johnson’s college résumé includes starting all 40 games, scoring in double figures in 30 contests, and delivering five 20‑point performances. He recorded a career‑high 16 rebounds in a win over Washington and posted nine double‑digit rebound games, underscoring his all‑around skill set.
A New Chapter in Dallas
Now joining a Mavericks franchise eager to blend youthful energy with seasoned leadership, Johnson enters a program that values grit and adaptability. His transition from Michigan’s storied basketball tradition to the NBA’s Western Conference promises fresh storylines for fans and analysts alike.
The draft pick also places Johnson among Michigan’s most prolific NBA alumni, extending a legacy that began with the 20th Wolverine selected since 2011. As he prepares for his first professional season, the expectations are clear: translate collegiate toughness into NBA success and become a cornerstone of Dallas’s rebuilding effort.