Over the course of just a few days, Dusty May has put together an impressive roster that is expected to contend in the Big Ten. The Michigan men’s basketball program added seven players during a five-day span, beginning on Friday. These additions include five college transfers and two high school recruits. May expressed his satisfaction with the nearly complete roster, an impressive feat considering his recent appointment.
In an episode of the College Hoops Today podcast, May acknowledged the challenges of assembling a competitive roster quickly. He emphasized the importance of the transfer portal and the staff’s ability to identify and recruit the right players.
The chronological breakdown of the additions includes:
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Friday:
Justin Pippen, a highly-rated guard from Sierra Canyon School in California, committed to Michigan. The son of NBA Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen is ranked among the top 150 prospects in the 2024 class. Rubin Jones, a guard with four seasons of experience at North Texas, also announced his transfer to Michigan.–
Saturday:
Yale’s Danny Wolf, a talented 7-foot center, committed to Michigan, fulfilling his childhood dream. Wolf was an All-Ivy League selection and brings impressive stats and skills to the Wolverines.–
Sunday:
Michigan added Tre Donaldson, a sophomore point guard from Auburn, who has a proven track record of shooting efficiency from beyond the arc.–
Monday:
The momentum continued with the addition of Roddy Gayle Jr. from Ohio State and Sam Walters from Alabama. Gayle is a key player with experience as a starter, while Walters is a forward known for his three-point shooting ability.–
Tuesday:
Lorenzo Cason, a three-star guard who had previously committed to May at Florida Atlantic, followed his coach to Michigan.With these additions, Michigan has filled most of its scholarships for the upcoming season. The coaching staff has also secured commitments from previous recruits Durral Brooks and George Washington III. While Jace Howard has expressed his intention to return, it has not been officially confirmed. Nimari Burnett and Terrance Williams II have yet to announce their decisions.
May expressed confidence that the roster is nearly complete, with the possibility of adding one or two more players who fit the team’s needs. He emphasized the importance of academic considerations in the recruitment process, acknowledging that Michigan has high standards. However, the fact that most of the new additions have already signed their commitments is a positive sign.
The rapid assembly of a strong roster under May’s leadership suggests that Michigan Basketball is poised for a successful season and a competitive presence in the Big Ten.
