Michigan basketball trio makes history in 2026 NBA Draft
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 1:31 AM
Last updated Jun 24, 2026
Morez Johnson Jr., Yaxel Lendeborg, and Aday Mara became the first trio from Michigan to be drafted in the top 15 during the 2026 NBA Draft. Johnson was selected No. 9 by the Dallas Mavericks, Lendeborg No. 11 by the Golden State Warriors, and Mara No. 12 by the Oklahoma City Thunder. This marks a notable achievement for the Wolverines, who previously had three players selected in the same draft only in 1990. The trio, known as the "Big Three," were pivotal in leading Michigan to its best season, including a national championship. All three players transfered to Michigan prior to the 2025-26 season but left a significant impact before heading to the NBA.
- •Johnson, Lendeborg, and Mara first top-15 trio in Michigan history.
- •Lendeborg was named Big Ten Player of the Year.
- •Wolverines achieved a program record 37 wins this season.
- •Lendeborg, Johnson, and Mara were key to Michigan's national title.
- •All three players transferred to Michigan before the season.
- 1:31 AMYahoo Sports — Michigan basketball makes history in 2026 NBA Draft
"A historic Michigan basketball team made more in the draft, with three players going in the top 15 for the first time in program history.
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