Basketball

Moustapha Thiam Commits to Michigan for 2026‑27 Season Amid Coaching Transition

The transfer center's return follows Dusty May's move to the Dallas Mavericks and the appointment of interim coach Mike Boynton Jr.

Moustapha Thiam will stay at Michigan for the 2026‑27 season, a move confirmed by On3’s Joe Tipton. His decision comes after head coach Dusty May departed for the Dallas Mavericks on June 22, leaving the program in a transitional phase.

A New Coaching Landscape

Interim coach Mike Boynton Jr. is slated to lead the Wolverines next season, tasked with building on the foundation left by May. The team will also retain guards Elliot Cadeau and forward Trey McKenney, both of whom have publicly committed to remaining in Ann Arbor.

Thiam’s Recent Impact

During his lone season with the Cincinnati Bearcats, Thiam started 31 games and posted averages of 12.8 points and 7.1 rebounds per contest. He shot 57.3% from two‑point range and 28.8% from three, while recording 50 blocks and nine double‑digit performances. His defensive versatility earned him All‑Big 12 honorable‑mention honors.

The Wolverines were among several programs that pursued Thiam, with Kansas, Michigan State, UConn and St. John’s also expressing interest. May had previously highlighted Thiam’s size, skill set and defensive prowess as key assets for the program.

Looking Ahead

With the core group staying together and a fresh coaching direction, Michigan aims to translate its offseason stability into on‑court competitiveness. The upcoming season will test how quickly the Wolverines can adapt to Boynton’s system while integrating Thiam’s inside presence and the continued development of Cadeau and McKenney.

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