The Michigan Wolverines men’s basketball team has emerged as a formidable force in the early projections for the 2025-2026 season. Under the guidance of new head coach Dusty May, Michigan has secured a top-five spot in ESPN’s Way-Too-Early Top 25 rankings, coming in at number five. This impressive ranking is largely attributed to Michigan’s strategic maneuvers in the transfer portal. The Wolverines have added three potential starters:Yaxel Lendeborg (UAB): A versatile 6’9″ forward known for his scoring and rebounding prowess. Lendeborg led UAB in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks, averaging 17.7 points and 11.4 rebounds per game. His dominant performance has positioned him as a borderline first-round NBA draft pick, though there’s uncertainty about his return to college basketball. Elliot Cadeau (North Carolina): A crafty point guard with high basketball IQ, Cadeau averaged 9.4 points per game last season. His playmaking abilities are expected to enhance Michigan’s offensive dynamics. Morez Johnson Jr. (Illinois): An athletic forward with significant potential, Johnson’s addition bolsters Michigan’s frontcourt depth. These transfers join returning contributors such as Roddy Gayle Jr. and Nimari Burnett, along with five-star recruit Trey McKenney. McKenney, a standout guard, brings elite ball-handling and scoring abilities, having earned a Gold Medal with Team USA in the 2024 FIBA U18 AmeriCup. The convergence of these talents positions Michigan as a strong contender in the upcoming season. However, the status of Lendeborg remains uncertain due to his NBA aspirations, which could significantly impact the team’s lineup. The NBA Draft withdrawal deadline on June 15 will be pivotal in determining his return to college basketball. Beyond Michigan, the Big Ten Conference is well-represented in the early rankings. Purdue leads the pack at number two, with Braden Smith and Trey Kaufman-Renn expected to be preseason All-Americans. Other Big Ten teams in the top 25 include UCLA (10), Wisconsin (14), Michigan State (18), and Ohio State (23), highlighting the conference’s competitive landscape. As the offseason unfolds, Michigan’s roster composition will become clearer, especially concerning Lendeborg’s decision. The Wolverines’ ability to integrate their new additions effectively will be crucial to their success in the 2025-2026 season.
