Michigan’s Morez Johnson Jr. declares for NBA Draft after title run
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Earlier this month, Michigan defeated UConn in the NCAA men’s basketball national championship game. Shortly after the Wolverines won the program’s first championship since 1989, Michigan forward Morez Johnson Jr. He announced that he will participate in the NBA Draft.
Although Johnson declared for the NBA Draft, he remained NCAA eligible throughout the process. However, if he plans to return during the junior season, he has until May 27 to opt out. Johnson played at Illinois during the 2024-25 season before transferring to Michigan last summer.
CLICK HERE TO GET MORE SPORTS NEWS ON FOXNEWS.COM
Michigan’s Morez Johnson Jr. walks on the field against UConn at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana on April 6, 2026. (Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated)
After joining Michigan, Johnson quickly emerged as a key contributor, posting the second-highest scoring average on the team. He also led the Wolverines in rebounds with an average of 7.3 per game.
Michigan head coach Dusty May eventually called Johnson the “Enforcer” and “Junkyard Dog,” a reference to his tenacity on the defensive end. Johnson was named to the Big Ten’s All-Defensive Team.
TOP 20 PLAYERS RANKING ON THE MEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL TRANSFER PORTAL
However, Johnson’s offensive prowess did not take a backseat to his defensive prowess. As the season progressed, his shooting from behind the 3-point line improved.
Morez Johnson Jr. of the Michigan Wolverines cuts to the net after defeating the UConn Huskies 69-63 in the 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament National Championship on April 6, 2026 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Many early NBA predictions gave Johnson a first-round grade. It’s unclear how much name, image and likeness (NIL) compensation he would seek if he returns to Michigan or transfers elsewhere.
Johnson has been actively engaging on social media with teammates who are considering returning to Michigan for another championship push.
Morez Johnson Jr. of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates after scoring a goal in the second half against the UConn Huskies during the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament National Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 6, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Jamie Schwaberow/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD FOX NEWS APPLICATION
Michigan added a key piece this week with the transfer of Jalen Reed from LSU. On3 reported. Reed is limited for the 2025-26 season due to an Achilles injury.
Follow Fox News Digital Sports streaming on Xand subscribe Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.
