Morez Johnson Jr. is keeping his name in the 2026 NBA draft, opting to chase his lifelong dream after a national championship run with Michigan. The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 13.1 points and 7.3 rebounds, shot 62.3% from the field, and earned All-Big Ten and All-Defensive honors during a season where he started all 40 games.

Johnson transferred to Michigan after a freshman year at Illinois where he started just eight games. Under coach Dusty May, he became a defensive anchor and consistent scorer, helping the Wolverines go 37-3 with a 19-1 Big Ten record. Nine double-doubles, including 12 points and 10 rebounds in the title game, cemented his status as a first-round prospect.

ESPN projects Johnson as the No. 17 pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder, joining Michigan teammates Aday Mara and Yaxel Lendeborg in the top 20. With his departure, Michigan reloads via the portal with Moustapha Thiam and J.P. Estrella entering the frontcourt alongside five-star recruit Brandon McCoy.