Michigan Wolverines star Elliot Cadeau has decided to drop from the 2026 NBA draft to play one more season in Ann Arbor. The decision comes ahead of the May 27 deadline when college athletes need to decide whether they want to stay in the draft or return for another year in college.
The decision was expected, according to insider Jon Rothstein, as there was almost no chance he would be selected in the first round, which comes with the perks of having a guaranteed salary. His return further bolsters the Michigan roster which went deep in the 2026 NCAA Tournament.
Cadeau was also not invited to the Combine and though he received an invite to the G League combine, he chose not to attend.
The Final Four’s reigning Most Outstanding Player is coming off an excellent season with Michigan, leading the Wolverines with 5.9 assists per game and also adding 10.5 points per game. Moreover, he shot 38% from the 3-point line. In the Final Four game against Arizona, he had 13 points and 10 assists. Moreover, he scored a game-high 19 points in the win against UConn in the national championship.
Michigan HC Dusty May Knew Why Elliot Cadeau Entered 2026 NBA Draft
Even though Elliot Cadeau declared for the NBA draft, head coach Dusty May always knew he would return to play for Michigan once more. According to May, Cadeau only entered the draft to know about the level of interest from NBA insiders and scouts.
“Elliot’s been the most clear saying that he wanted to use this to get feedback, to have a positive experience,” May said on April 29. “If he wants to go see what a workout’s like to prepare himself for next year to hear what the people, our future employers are going to say about us, then I’m fully supportive of him.”
With Cadeau returning, the Wolverines figure to play the guard with sophomore Trey McKenney in the backcourt.
It remains to be seen with Cadeau back, how May figures to start his backcourt. One thing is certain, though, that Cadeau will be in the starting five.
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