Dusty May, the Michigan coach who captured a national title in 2026, is finalising a deal to become head coach of the Dallas Mavericks. After a 26‑56 season, the franchise fired Jason Kidd and seeks fresh direction. May’s arrival marks the first college‑to‑NBA jump since 2019 in this season context.

Dallas built a core around rookie Cooper Flagg, who earned NBA Rookie of the Year after averaging 21.0 points per game. The Mavericks’ loss of superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025 triggered a cascade of upheaval, including the dismissal of GM Nico Harrison in the season.

May’s exit leaves Michigan scrambling; a 15‑day transfer window will open once a new coach is named, giving players a chance to reconsider. Assistant Mike Boynton, former Oklahoma State head coach, stands as a possible internal replacement, while the Wolverines retain talent like Elliot Cadeau and Trey McKenney in 2026.

The Mavericks, who owed Kidd over $40 million on his contract, have pivoted to a new era under Masai Ujiri’s leadership. May’s tactical prowess and roster construction skills could reshape Dallas’s identity, while Michigan braces for a turbulent rebuild that may reshape the Big Ten landscape in the coming season.