The Dallas Mavericks went big at No. 9 in the 2026 NBA Draft, grabbing Michigan enforcer Morez Johnson Jr., the rugged forward who helped power the Wolverines to a national championship. The move instantly reunites Johnson with his college coach Dusty May, who bolted Ann Arbor for Dallas just before draft night. At 6-9 and roughly 250 pounds, Johnson slots in as a physical, defense-and-rebounding first big who is expected to battle for minutes right away around the rim.
As reported by The New York Times, Dallas made Johnson the No. 9 overall pick on June 23. The Times' live draft coverage, which drew on analysis from Sam Vecenie, John Hollinger and David Aldridge, framed the move as an early piece of a broader roster reset under the team's new leadership.
Profile and numbers
NBA.com lists Johnson at 6-9 and 250 pounds, with averages of 13.1 points and 7.3 rebounds per game for Michigan last season. According to the site, he led the Wolverines in rebounding, stacked up nine double-doubles and earned All-Big Ten defensive recognition.
Measurements and scouting
Johnson's draft combine numbers backed up his reputation as a force in the paint. Reports show a wingspan of roughly 7'3.5" and a standing reach of 8'11", physical tools that help him finish above the rim and control the glass. Yahoo Sports and other evaluators highlighted his mobility and touch around the basket while noting that his perimeter game stayed mostly under wraps in college.
How he fits in Dallas
The pick doubles as a continuity play. Dallas announced the hiring of former Michigan coach Dusty May shortly before the draft, and taking Johnson gives May a familiar frontcourt piece as he settles into the Mavericks' bench. CBS Sports reported on May's move to Dallas and the front office's rapid reshaping of the roster around him.
Scouts describe Johnson as a high-motor, finish-first big whose defense and offensive rebounding headline his skill set, while his jumper remains a work in progress, as he took only 35 three-pointers at Michigan. NBA.com projects him as a versatile depth piece who can slide between the four and a small-ball five, with his energy on defense and the boards likely to earn him early rotation minutes.
For Mavericks fans, the selection signals what the new regime wants to be about: toughness you can see, lineups that can shuffle on the fly and a coach-player connection that is already tested on a championship stage. Johnson now heads into the Mavericks' summer program and training camp as he starts the climb into his pro career.
.jpg){kind=link}