NEW YORK – The Dallas Mavericks selected Michigan Wolverines forward Morez Johnson Jr. with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft on Tuesday, adding a physical, high-energy frontcourt player who helped lead the Dusty May-coached team to a national championship.
Johnson, a 6’9” forward from Illinois, emerged as one of the Big Ten’s most productive two-way players during Michigan’s title run, which is why May took him as his first pick as an NBA head coach.
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The 20-year-old arrives in the NBA after a decorated collegiate career that included a national championship, All-Big Ten honors, and a reputation as one of the conference’s toughest defenders.
Two-way force in Michigan’s title run
Johnson earned a spot on the Big Ten All-Defensive Team, receiving second-team All-Big Ten recognition from media members and third-team honors from league coaches.
He averaged 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.1 blocks, and 0.7 steals in 25.1 minutes per game, all while playing a pivotal role in Michigan’s championship run.
He was named to the NCAA All-Tournament Team after a series of standout performances in March, capping a season that established him as one of the conference’s most complete frontcourt players.
Postseason highlights, signature moments
Johnson’s biggest moments came when the stakes were highest.
He contributed 10 points and 12 rebounds in Michigan’s national championship victory over Connecticut, helping the Wolverines secure the program’s latest NCAA title.
During the regular season, he delivered 29 points against Southern California and 24 against Oakland, showcasing the scoring upside that complemented his reputation as a defensive stalwart.
From Illinois Mr. Basketball to Ann Arbor
Johnson’s path to the NBA began in the Chicago suburbs, where he starred at Thornton Township High School and earned Illinois Mr. Basketball honors in 2024.
He began his college career at Illinois, immediately making an impact and setting the program’s freshman field-goal percentage record at 64.2%.
Following his freshman season, Johnson transferred to Michigan, where his development accelerated under the Wolverines’ coaching staff, ultimately helping him earn a spot on one of college basketball’s biggest stages.
What scouts see
NBA scouts have been drawn to Johnson’s physicality, athleticism, and versatility on defense.
He excels as a rebounder and rim finisher, using his strength and motor to generate second-chance opportunities and score efficiently around the basket.
His defensive versatility could allow him to play both power forward and small-ball center at the professional level, a profile that has drawn comparisons to NBA veteran Isaiah Stewart.
Johnson shot 34.3% from three-point range during his sophomore season, though he attempted just 35 shots from beyond the arc.
Evaluators believe continued growth as a perimeter shooter could significantly expand his role at the next level.
While not known as a primary shot creator, Johnson has earned praise for his willingness to do the dirty work, defend multiple positions, and impact games without needing plays called for him.
International pedigree
Johnson also brings significant international experience to the professional level.
He won gold medals with USA Basketball at the 2024 FIBA Under-18 AmeriCup and the 2025 FIBA Under-19 Men’s World Cup, gaining valuable experience against top competition from around the globe.
That international exposure, combined with his championship pedigree at Michigan, gives Johnson a winning résumé that few players his age can match.
Next step
Off the court, Johnson is known for building LEGO sets in his downtime and grew up watching Kevin Durant, a player whose competitive drive and commitment to improvement Johnson has cited as an influence.
Now, Johnson brings that same energy to Dallas.
He projects as a rotational contributor early in his NBA career, with the potential to earn a larger role as his offensive game continues to develop.
His rebounding, defensive effort, and ability to finish around the basket should provide an immediate foundation for success at the next level.
The Mavericks hope those traits, combined with Johnson’s championship pedigree and relentless motor, make him an important piece of the organization’s future.