
Mavericks Draft Shock: Morez Johnson Jr. Goes Ninth
The Dallas Mavericks surprised many by choosing Morez Johnson Jr. with the ninth overall pick, a move highlighted by ESPN as the draft’s most unexpected selection.
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The Dallas Mavericks surprised many by choosing Morez Johnson Jr. with the ninth overall pick, a move highlighted by ESPN as the draft’s most unexpected selection.

The 2026 NBA Draft saw the University of Michigan’s Morez Johnson Jr., Yaxel Lendeborg and Aday Mara selected in the opening round, each landing with a different NBA franchise.

Tobi Lawal, a graduate of Lee Academy in Maine, was selected by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2026 NBA draft, marking the second Maine‑born player to wear the Mavericks jersey.

Three Michigan players were selected in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft, and emerging stars are already shaping expectations for the 2027 draft.

The 2026 NBA Draft saw former Florida Atlantic University forward Baba Miller chosen by the Los Angeles Clippers, continuing a streak that began with Alijah Martin’s 2025 selection and reflects the program’s rapid ascent under former coach Dusty May.

Baba Miller’s selection by the Los Angeles Clippers marks the second consecutive NBA draft pick for Florida Atlantic University, highlighting a burgeoning talent pipeline that now includes Alijah Martin, Vladislav Goldin and Johnell Davis.

Selected 55th overall, Martinelli brings a 23‑point average and a reputation for work ethic to a Clippers roster eyeing a playoff push.

A look at the young players whose statistical trajectories and draft positions suggest they could become major contributors in fantasy leagues and on the court next season.

The 2026 NBA draft night turned into a celebration for the University of Michigan, as three of its recent standouts heard their names called in the opening round. Aday Mara, Morez Johnson Jr. and Yaxel Lendeborg were all selected among the first 12 picks, sparking excitement across the league and among Wolverines fans.
Morez Johnson Jr., Yaxel Lendeborg and Aday Mara became the first trio of lottery picks from Michigan in a single draft, capping a record‑breaking season for the Wolverines.

Mike Boynton Jr. was named interim head coach of the Michigan Wolverines after Dusty May’s departure to the Dallas Mavericks. He expressed excitement, confidence in retaining the roster, and said the team’s playing style will remain similar.

The departure of Dusty May from Michigan for the Dallas Mavericks ignites discussion about the state of college basketball, with criticism from Jay Bilas and defense from Seth Davis.

Mike Boynton Jr. steps in as interim head coach, promising continuity while navigating player intentions and roster changes.

After a championship‑winning stint with the Boston Celtics, veteran forward Xavier Tillman Sr. signs with Trabzonspor, bringing his defensive grit and mentorship to a Turkish league eager for fresh talent.

Morez Johnson Jr. was selected ninth overall by the Dallas Mavericks, reuniting him with former Michigan coach Dusty May and teammate Cooper Flagg. He brings a defensive reputation and national‑championship experience to Dallas.

John Beilein, the winningest coach in University of Michigan basketball history, has emerged as a vocal supporter of Mike Boynton Jr., the newly appointed interim head coach tasked with steering the Wolverines through a pivotal transition.

Yaxel Lendeborg’s selection by the Golden State Warriors marks the culmination of a collegiate career defined by dominance over Michigan State and a draft‑night twist involving his former coach.

Major transitions in coaching staff, NCAA eligibility reforms and NBA Draft outcomes are redefining roster strategies and future expectations for the 2026‑27 season.

In a draft night that surprised many, Dusty May introduced Morez Johnson Jr. to the Dallas Mavericks, a versatile 6‑foot‑11 defender whose blend of rebounding, shot‑blocking and shooting could reshape the team's interior.

Three University of Michigan players were selected in the first round of the 2026 NBA draft, ending a 36‑year drought and cementing the program’s return to elite status.

Yaxel Lendeborg, the 11th overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft, is set to begin a new chapter with the Golden State Warriors, where he will learn from Stephen Curry and Draymond Green after a celebrated college career at Michigan.

The 2026 NBA Draft saw the Big 12 cement its rise with nine first‑round selections, including the conference’s first two overall picks, as teams celebrated a landmark night in New York.

The Phoenix Suns traded away the No. 47 pick, two future second‑rounders and cash to acquire the rights to Koa Peat, a standout from Perry High who impressed at the University of Arizona.

Two Arizona Wildcats were selected in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft, continuing a storied tradition of NBA talent from the university.