Morez Johnson Jr. to Dusty May's Mavs, Watch Highlights of No. 9 Pick in 2026 NBA Draft

Michigan forward Morez Johnson Jr. was selected by the Dallas Mavericks with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft on Tuesday night, as he was reunited with a familiar face.

Johnson will now play under new Mavericks head coach Dusty May, who previously coached him throughout his 2025-26 campaign on the Wolverines.

Johnson reacted to playing under May once again.

"It's insane man," Johnson said after he was drafted, via Eddie Sefko of the team's official website. "The Michigan Mavs."

Here's a look at Johnson's highlights from his sophomore year.

In 40 appearances, he averaged 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 62.3 percent from the field. Johnson also went 12-of-35 from three-point territory.

The 20-year-old remained impactful throughout Michigan's 2026 NCAA tournament run that ended with a national championship, including a 69-63 victory over UConn in the national title game.

Johnson finished with a double-double against the Huskies, scoring 12 points and grabbing 10 rebounds while shooting 5-of-7 on field goals in 28 minutes on the floor.

He showcased his defensive abilities throughout his lone year at Michigan, disrupting passing lanes and deterring shots at the rim. Johnson's wingspan was measured at just over 7'3" at the NBA draft combine, ranking No. 3 among all forwards that participated.

He'll now join 2025-26 Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg in Dallas, forming one of the league's most intriguing young frontcourts.

The duo will be coached by May, who was officially hired by the Mavericks earlier on Tuesday.

Dallas is looking to take a step forward during its 2026-27 campaign after finishing at 26-56 last season.