Dusty May Leaves Michigan for NBA Dream

Dusty May, the architect of Michigan's 2026 National Championship basketball team, has transitioned to the NBA as the new head coach of the Dallas Mavericks. May, who compiled a 64-13 record during his over two years with the Wolverines, accepted the position in March 2026.

Sources indicate that May's decision was influenced by his dissatisfaction with the NCAA transfer portal system and a long-held ambition to coach at the professional level. He expressed dismay over the lack of progress in addressing transfer portal issues during Big Ten meetings.

His departure from Michigan occurred shortly after securing the program's second national title, a victory achieved against UConn with a score of 69-63. May highlighted the trust and "blind faith" of his players, including Aday Mara, Morez Johnson Jr., and Yaxel Lendeborg, as crucial to their success.

Notably, the Mavericks drafted Morez Johnson Jr. with the ninth pick in the 2026 NBA draft on the same day May's move was announced. Johnson, a key player in Michigan's championship run, expressed shock but excitement about reuniting with May in Dallas.

Reflecting on his time at Michigan, May noted his undefeated record against Ohio State but expressed regret over his .500 record against Michigan State and a loss to Duke, wishing he had a stronger roster to include players like Kyrie Irving, Cooper Flagg, and Dereck Lively II to avoid those results.