Morez Johnson Jr. declares for NBA draft, maintains college eligibility

Earlier this month, Michigan defeated UConn successful nan NCAA men’s hoops nationalist title game. Shortly aft nan Wolverines captured nan program's first title since 1989, Michigan guardant Morez Johnson Jr. announced he will participate nan NBA Draft.

Despite declaring for nan NBA Draft, Johnson has maintained his NCAA eligibility passim nan process. However, he has until May 27 to retreat if he plans to return for his inferior season. Johnson played astatine Illinois during nan 2024-25 play earlier transferring to Michigan past offseason.

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Michigan's Morez Johnson Jr. walks connected nan tribunal against UConn astatine Lucas Oil Stadium successful Indianapolis, Indiana, connected April 6, 2026. (Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated)

After joining Michigan, Johnson quickly emerged arsenic a cardinal contributor, averaging nan second-most points connected nan team. He besides led nan Wolverines successful rebounding, averaging 7.3 per game.

Michigan’s caput coach Dusty May yet dubbed Johnson "The Enforcer" and "Junkyard Dog," a motion to his tenacity connected nan protect end. Johnson was named to nan Big Ten's All-Defensive Team.

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But Johnson’s violative prowess didn’t return a backmost spot to his protect strengths. His shooting from beyond nan 3-point statement showed improvements arsenic nan play progressed.

Morez Johnson Jr. of nan Michigan Wolverines cuts down nan nett aft defeating nan UConn Huskies 69-63 successful nan National Championship of nan 2026 NCAA men's hoops tourney astatine Lucas Oil Stadium successful Indianapolis, Indiana, connected April 6, 2026. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Many early NBA projections gave Johnson a first-round grade. It’s unclear really overmuch name, image and likeness (NIL) compensation he would bid if he returns to Michigan aliases transfers elsewhere.

Johnson has been progressive connected societal media, interacting pinch teammates arsenic they see returning to Michigan for different title push.

Morez Johnson Jr. of nan Michigan Wolverines celebrates aft scoring successful nan 2nd half against nan UConn Huskies during nan National Championship of nan 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament astatine Lucas Oil Stadium successful Indianapolis, Indiana, connected April 6, 2026. (Jamie Schwaberow/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

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Michigan added a cardinal portion this week, pinch Jalen Reed transferring from LSU, On3 reported. Reed was constricted during nan 2025-26 play by an Achilles injury.

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