Michigan has garnered significant attention nationwide under head coach Dusty May. Following a successful Sweet Sixteen run with a 27-10 record, May has secured the No. 8 recruiting class, featuring key additions, including the standout transfer, Yaxel Lendeborg, the top transfer prospect according to 247Sports.
Alongside Lendeborg, the class boasts transfers Elliot Cadeau, Morez Johnson Jr., and Aday Mara, as well as high school recruits Trey McKenney and Winters Grady. This impressive recruitment has raised questions, particularly since Lendeborg has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft.
As of April 22nd, here is an analysis of the roster and the anticipated rotation:
Projected Starting Lineup:
Point Guard: Elliot Cadeau, 6-foot-1, Jr.
2024-25 Stats: 9.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 44.5% FG, 33.7% 3FG
Cadeau, who reclassified in high school and was rated as the No. 2 point guard prospect, shone at Chapel Hill for two years with the Tar Heels, demonstrating his playmaking skills. His assist rate led all prospects in the transfer portal this offseason. Michigan sought a dynamic on-ball guard, and they found one in Cadeau, noted for his elite defense. Improvement in his shooting could enhance his position as one of the conference’s top guards.
Shooting Guard: Roddy Gayle, 6-foot-5, Sr.
2024-25 Stats: 9.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.8 steals, 43.1% FG, 23.2% 3FG
I chose Gayle for his experience despite the appealing potential of McKenney and Cason. Gayle faced criticism throughout the season, yet rose to the occasion when it mattered most, notably scoring 26 points against Texas A&M. His resilience and ability to adjust will be crucial for him next season as he is positioned to leverage his physical attributes on offense.
Small Forward: Nimari Burnett, 6-foot-5, 6th Year Sr.
2024-25 Stats: 9.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 47.6% FG, 40.0% 3FG
Burnett’s return for another season in Ann Arbor is no surprise as he has developed into a key 3&D wing in the lineup. His ability to space the floor next to a playmaking guard like Cadeau could lead to a standout season for Burnett, making him an asset due to his experience and shooting prowess.
Power Forward: Yaxel Lendeborg, 6-foot-9, 5th Year Sr.
2024-25 Stats: 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks, 1.7 steals, 52% FG, 35.7% 3FG
Lendeborg is regarded as the top player to enter the transfer portal, having declared for the NBA Draft while currently remaining on the roster. His versatility and skills position him as a front-runner for both the National Defensive Player and Player of the Year awards next season.
Center: Morez Johnson Jr., 6-foot-9, So.
2024-25 Stats: 7.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 0.3 assists, 1.1 blocks, 64.2% FG, 0.0% 3FG
Johnson proved to be a formidable force at Illinois last season. Known for his exceptional rebounding and shot-altering abilities, Johnson is expected to take on a starting role next season and will benefit from playing alongside Michigan’s strong playmakers.
Michigan’s Bench and Depth:
Guard: LJ Cason, 6-foot-2, So.
2024-25 Stats: 4.3 points, 1.4 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 36.8% FG, 24.6% 3FG
Cason, who had a strong finish to his freshman season, is expected to make a significant impact next year. His ability to excel in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset, and anticipations of a “sophomore jump” in his performance are high.
Guard: Trey McKenney, 6-foot-5, Fr.
2025 HS Ranking: No. 17 Overall, No. 3 CG in 247Sports 2025 Composite Rankings.
Entering Ann Arbor as a five-star prospect, McKenney has already shown scoring capability at the highest level. His size and strength position him well for college basketball, and he could become a key player in the rotation.
Center: Aday Mara, 7-foot-3, Jr.
2024-25 Stats: 6.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 1.6 blocks, 59.0% FG, 0.0% 3FG
Mara, highly regarded for his shot-blocking ability, brings further depth to the center position. His skills could lead to significant contributions in both defense and ball movement.
Forward: Will Tschetter, 6-foot-8, 5th Year Sr.
2024-25 Stats: 6.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 47.7% FG, 35.1% 3FG
Tschetter continues to be a reliable source of energy and experience. His breadth of skills allows him to play multiple positions, making him an invaluable team member as a leader.
Analyzing the Team’s Potential:
The front court for the upcoming season appears to be exceptionally strong. Following last year’s success, Michigan’s lineup possesses the potential to excel further, particularly with the chemistry expected among Lendeborg, Johnson, and Mara.
The wing players are poised to benefit significantly from the roster improvements. With new additions such as Cadeau and Lendeborg, returning players like Gayle and Burnett could have their best seasons yet, enhancing their efficiency and impact on the game.
As lead guards, Cadeau and Cason will likely work well together on the court. Cason has shown promise as a shooter and playmaker, and if he can continue to develop, he could become a crucial part of the rotation.
Overall, while May has effectively addressed the needs of rebounding and toughness, shooting can still be a concern for Michigan. With the need for reliable long-range shooters, players such as Lendeborg, Cadeau, and others must step up their shooting consistency for the team to excel.
For more in-depth coverage, stay connected with The Michigan Insider throughout the offseason.
