Michigan Basketball 2025–26: Why a Final Four Is on the Table
By Pingseat Staff • Updated August 23, 2025 • Detroit & Ann Arbor
The 2025–26 Michigan Wolverines combine veteran leadership, high-impact newcomers, and sharp coaching into a potent mix. Our takeaway: Michigan should make the Final Four.
Veteran Core & Leadership
Headlining the returning group is Nimari Burnett, back as a seasoned two-way guard who spaces the floor and delivers in late-game moments. Wing/guard Roddy Gayle Jr. brings downhill scoring and size on the perimeter, while Elliot Cadeau stabilizes the point with pace, vision, and ball security. That trio gives Michigan a reliable spine to blend with new pieces.
Transfer Portal Reinforcements
Michigan’s portal work upgraded size, rim protection, and versatility—exactly what wins in March.
- Yaxel Lendeborg (PF): High-motor rebounder and short-roll playmaker who also protects the rim. Profiles as an immediate 2-way impact in the frontcourt.
- Aday Mara (C): 7-footer with touch and length; adds vertical spacing and interior size that alters shots.
- Morez Johnson Jr. (PF/C): Physical defender and screener who boosts second-chance points and paint toughness.
- Elliot Cadeau (PG): Dynamic table-setter—pushes tempo, organizes late-clock actions, and raises the floor of bench units.
2025 Recruiting Class
- Trey McKenney (G): In-state scorer with frame and shot creation; projects as an early rotation wing/guard.
- Oscar Goodman (F): International forward with feel; connector piece who can pass and defend multiple spots.
- Winters Grady (W): Smooth perimeter option; secondary creation and catch-and-shoot value.
- Malick Kordel (C): 7'1" size for depth; long-term interior development with immediate rim-protection upside.
Coach Dusty May’s Impact
In short order, Dusty May has re-established an identity: efficient half-court offense, precise spacing, and a defense that communicates and finishes possessions. His emphasis on decision-making (early advantages, paint touches, kick-out threes) paired with lineup versatility gives Michigan a blueprint that scales in the NCAA Tournament. For official program updates, visit Michigan Men’s Basketball (MGoBlue).
Key Non-Conference Tests to Circle
A headline pre-conference matchup with Duke is the early national barometer for Michigan’s late-clock creation and switching defense.
There’s also a neutral-site test versus Wake Forest at downtown Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena. Expect a maize-and-blue-heavy crowd to tilt the energy Michigan’s way. (Schedules evolve—confirm via MGoBlue.)
| Matchup | Venue / City | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Michigan vs Duke | Neutral / National TV | Elite guard/wing test; late-game reps vs a top program |
| Michigan vs Wake Forest | Little Caesars Arena (Detroit) | Pace/physicality check; strong Michigan crowd in Detroit |
Big Ten Outlook
The league will be rugged, but Michigan’s blend of shooting, size, and lineup flexibility stacks up with the top tier. Protecting Crisler and splitting the toughest road swings (Madison, West Lafayette, Champaign) should keep a top-2 seed in play— a launchpad for a Final Four push.
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Bottom Line
With an experienced core, a top-tier transfer class, high-upside recruits, and a clear identity under Dusty May, Michigan has all the pieces. This season feels Final Four-bound.
FAQ: Michigan Basketball 2025–26
Which veteran leaders return?
Nimari Burnett (two-way guard), Roddy Gayle Jr. (downhill wing/guard), and Elliot Cadeau (pace-setting PG) headline the group and steady the late-game offense.
Who are the key incoming transfers?
Yaxel Lendeborg (PF), Aday Mara (C), Morez Johnson Jr. (PF/C), and Elliot Cadeau (PG) raise the ceiling with size, rim protection, and creation.
What does the 2025 recruiting class add?
Trey McKenney, Oscar Goodman, Winters Grady, and Malick Kordel supply shooting, length, and long-term depth across the lineup.
Where can I confirm game dates and TV info?
Check the official schedule on MGoBlue; schedules are updated frequently.