Morez Johnson Jr., a standout forward from the University of Michigan, was selected ninth overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2024 NBA Draft on Tuesday night. The pick reunited Johnson with his former college coach Dusty May, who was recently hired by Dallas, creating a unique continuity between their collegiate and professional careers.

Johnson, 20, was the first of three Michigan players taken in the lottery within a four-pick span, a first in the program’s history. Yaxel Lendeborg was selected 11th by the Golden State Warriors, followed by Aday Mara, chosen 12th by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Johnson described the achievement as a shared milestone, emphasizing their collective goal of winning a national championship before entering the NBA.

A native of Riverdale, Illinois, Johnson began his high school career at St. Rita before transferring to Thornton for his senior season. He earned the 2024 Mr. Basketball of Illinois honor after an impressive high school run. After a freshman year at the University of Illinois where he made eight starts, Johnson transferred to Michigan. There, he became a full-time starter and helped lead the Wolverines to a national title.

On the court, Johnson showcased a versatile skill set. Offensively, he expanded beyond his initial role as a rim runner and lob threat by developing a reliable three-point shot, making 34.3% from beyond the arc after no attempts in his freshman year. Defensively, he proved capable of guarding multiple positions, effectively switching on screens and covering the perimeter as well as protecting the rim. He also demonstrated relentless rebounding ability, averaging 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 62.3% from the field.

Speaking shortly after the announcement of May’s hiring, Johnson expressed gratitude and enthusiasm about reuniting with his coach at the professional level. “We’ve got work to do,” he said during the ESPN broadcast. “I’m very grateful for this opportunity. I’m excited to do it with my coach. We won together this past season. I’m looking forward to winning with him with the Mavs.”

Johnson’s selection and reunion with May highlight both the Mavericks’ investment in incoming talent and the value placed on established player-coach chemistry as the team seeks to build its future core.