DUSTY MAY LEAVES MICHIGAN FOR DALLAS MAVERICKS HEAD COACH ROLE

Dusty May has agreed to become head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, according to NBA Insider Shams Charania. The announcement came one day before the 2026 NBA Draft and ends May's tenure at the University of Michigan. May led the Wolverines to a National Championship two months prior, their first title in 37 years. Athletic director Warde Manuel had recently announced a new verbal contract for May following that championship victory.

May's move to Dallas is motivated by multiple factors, according to analyst Jeff Goodman. The 49-year-old declined to miss the opportunity to coach Mavericks power forward Cooper Flagg, who will enter his second year with the franchise. Three Michigan alumni are expected to enter the 2026 NBA Draft, creating potential for continuity between the coach and players familiar with his methods. May cited concerns about the changing NCAA landscape as another reason for transitioning to professional basketball, where the competitive structure is more established.

The Mavericks required significant change following a 26-56 season under previous head coach Jason Kidd. The franchise had been actively pursuing May to lead their rebuilding effort. May's track record includes a 64-13 record at Michigan, demonstrating success in developing basketball talent at the collegiate level.