Michigan’s Morez Johnson Jr. Joins Roster Ahead of 2025-26 Season

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The University of Michigan is gearing up for the 2025-26 college basketball season with new talent, including notable transfer Morez Johnson Jr. from the University of Illinois.

Johnson, a 6-foot-9 center, showed promise during his freshman year with the Illini, averaging 7 points and 6.7 rebounds in just under 18 minutes per game. His strong rebounding and physical play are assets that head coach Dusty May hopes will bolster Michigan’s frontcourt.

“Morez brings a level of toughness we’ve been missing,” May said. “His ability to dominate on the offensive glass will change our game significantly.” Johnson was ranked among the top-40 recruits in his class and is a two-time USA Basketball gold medalist, which underscores his talent.

During his freshman campaign at Illinois, Johnson excelled as one of the best offensive rebounders in the nation, boasting a 17.2 percent offensive rebounding rate, ranking fourth highest in the country among players logging ample minutes. The Illini’s rebounding percentage improved dramatically when he was on the court, further emphasizing his impact.

The Wolverines are set to start their season today, with the Big Ten games commencing in early December. There has been a significant roster restructuring across many college teams due to the transfer portal, making Michigan’s addition of Johnson strategic.

Looking ahead, Michigan is anticipated to be a contender in the Big Ten, especially after last year’s season ending in the Sweet Sixteen. With Johnson and other transfer signings like Yaxel Lendeborg, Aday Mara, and Elliott Cadeau, the Wolverines aim to challenge for the league title.

As the college basketball season unfolds, it remains to be seen how quickly the new roster will gel and how effectively they can collaborate on the floor.