When I first heard about Jaxel Lendeborg’s news, I felt a bit nostalgic.
He, the Big Ten Player of the Year and a likely top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, mentioned he “almost cried” upon learning that Dusty May, the former University of Michigan coach, would be heading to the NBA’s Mavericks.
“It’s sad knowing I won’t be able to play for him next season,” Lendeborg shared at NBA Draft Media Day. “But I’m really happy for him; he deserves this opportunity. He’s a great coach and an even better person.”
May is reportedly about to finalize a deal with Dallas after leading the Wolverines to their first national title since 1989.
Like many in the college basketball community, Lendeborg was surprised by May’s career move. Aday Mara and Mores Johnson Jr., two other potential first-round picks from Michigan, echoed similar feelings.
During his brief two years in Ann Arbor, May posted an impressive 64-13 record, won a Big Ten Tournament championship, a regular season title, and made consecutive NCAA Tournament trips.
Interestingly, he still has four years left on a contract extension signed in 2025, and there’s a $5 million penalty for leaving early.
May will join the Mavericks imminently, preparing for their No. 9 draft pick, which could hint at future selections involving former Michigan players.
Johnson noted he hadn’t yet talked to the Mavericks, making it unclear if he’ll reunite with May in Dallas.
On the other hand, Lendeborg and Mara have communicated with Dallas and seem eager to make the move to Texas.
Jokingly, Lendeborg said, “[May], you better draft me or I’ll be mad.” Meanwhile, Mara expressed that training with Dallas was a beneficial experience, even without direct contact from May.
The Mavericks might also look at either player if they slip to the 30th pick in the second round.
No matter how Tuesday’s draft turns out, the trio of former Wolverines believes May will thrive in the NBA, with Johnson remarking, “He already coached like an NBA coach.”
Before the season kicked off, Michigan scouted Johnson, Lendeborg, and Mara, offering them an NIL opportunity which they feel helped May understand talent management and egos.
“One of his remarkable skills is his adaptability and willingness to evolve,” Mara pointed out. “He’s deeply passionate about basketball, so if there’s something he needs to adjust from his college methods, I have no doubt he’ll do it.”
