Morez Johnson Jr., the 20-year-old forward who transferred from Illinois, announced he will remain in the 2026 NBA Draft following an impressive season at Michigan Wolverines. Johnson played a key role in helping Michigan secure its first national championship since 1989, starting all 40 games and averaging 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per contest.
Johnson bid farewell to the Wolverines on social media, expressing gratitude for head coach Dusty May, teammates, staff, and the Michigan community. “Michigan means everything to me… From Day 1, Coach May talked about development, accountability and competing for championships. I’m proud of everything we accomplished together,” he wrote.
At the 2026 NBA Combine in Chicago, Johnson showcased his athleticism with the fourth-fastest lane agility time and a 39-inch max vertical, boosting his draft stock. According to Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor, Johnson is projected to be selected 17th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder ability to guard multiple positions as key assets for pairing alongside star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Despite not being a true center and still developing his jump shot, Johnson has a promising NBA future, especially with a team like the Thunder capable of improving his offensive game. His performance with Michigan, including a 62.3% field-goal percentage and 34.3% from three-point range, demonstrates his efficiency and impact in a balanced, championship-winning frontcourt alongside Yaxel Lendeborg and Aday Mara.
Johnson’s departure is part of a larger roster transition for Michigan, with coach May already bringing in portal commitments such as former Cincinnati center Moustapha Thiam and former Tennessee forward J.P. Estrella.


