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Last updated: April 23, 2026, 9:28 a.m. ET
Michigan basketball faces numerous roster decisions for the 2026-27 season, particularly concerning its frontcourt.
The Wolverines await final choices from their championship-winning starting big men, Aday Mara and Morez Johnson Jr., who are weighing their NBA prospects against another year in college.
It appears both players are leaning towards the NBA. Mara previously indicated to the Free Press that a top-20 draft projection would lead him to declare. Furthermore, on April 22, the Free Press reported that Michigan’s coaching staff estimates a “75%” likelihood of Johnson also entering the NBA. Despite being the more probable of the two to return, U-M maintains a spot for him but isn’t highly optimistic about his comeback.
Assuming U-M will need to replace Mara, a significant void for a dedicated center emerges. While incoming transfer J.P. Estrella is a valuable addition, he is primarily viewed as a power forward, or a center only in smaller formations.
Michigan aims to complement Estrella with a genuine rim protector, prompting the Wolverines to host Cincinnati’s Moustapha Thiam for a visit this past week. Reports suggest Michigan was highly encouraged by the visit.
According to an insider familiar with the coaching staff’s intentions, but not permitted to speak publicly, the visit proceeded “exceptionally well,” indicating a strong alignment of objectives between both parties.
While the exact timeline remains uncertain, it is believed Thiam’s representatives are nearing a decision, leading Michigan’s contingent to be “hopeful” for positive news relatively soon.
The ex-All-Big 12 honorable mention is considering multiple prominent programs. Thiam also toured St. John’s, with Arkansas and Kansas actively pursuing him as well.
Under coach Dusty May, the Wolverines have demonstrated a strong track record of developing centers over the last two years, evidenced by the significant progress of both Vladislav Goldin and Mara. Thiam, who posted averages of 12.8 points and 7.1 rebounds per game for the Bearcats, would probably experience similar growth.
His freshman year at UCF saw him block 88 shots, followed by 50 blocks as a sophomore at Cincinnati. This shot-blocking ability is highly sought after by U-M, complementing their preference for ample frontline size to dominate opponents.
Michigan has long adhered to the philosophy that a strong contingent of big men creates difficulties for rivals, and effectively integrating them (such as Danny Wolf with Vlad Goldin, or Mara with Johnson) is a crucial aspect of their strategy.
It is widely believed that Estrella and Thiam would form a very effective duo.
Beyond Mara and Johnson, U-M has also seen the departure of standout wing Yaxel Lendeborg, along with Will Tschetter (due to eligibility) and Malick Kordel (who transferred to Minnesota). Should Mara and Johnson depart, the 2026-27 season will necessitate an almost entirely new frontcourt.
It would not be unexpected if U-M acquired another less-heralded big man to bolster their depth. However, Thiam currently stands as the Wolverines’ primary frontcourt target, as Michigan endeavors to assemble a roster capable of securing consecutive championships.
Tony Garcia serves as the Michigan beat reporter for the Detroit Free Press. He can be reached via email at [email protected] and found on X (formerly Twitter) at @RealTonyGarcia.