Michigan basketball continues to reshape its roster under head coach Dusty May, landing four high-impact transfer prospects: Yaxel Lendeborg, Elliot Cadeau, Morez Johnson Jr., and Aday Mara. The Wolverines wasted no time securing three of the portal’s top talents within 10 days before adding Mara, a 7’3″, 240-pound center from UCLA.
According to multiple reports Friday, Mara committed to Michigan after appearing in 61 games and starting nine for the Bruins. He is projected to take on a role similar to Vlad Goldin, Michigan’s All-Big Ten center, who exhausted his collegiate eligibility following the 2024-25 season. Let’s rank Big Blue’s four transfer portal acquisitions.
Ranking Michigan Basketball’s Four Transfer Portal Acquisitions
1. F Yaxel Lendeborg, UAB
Standing 6’9″, Yaxel Lendeborg emerged as the most productive player in the country last season, posting 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.7 steals per game. He shot 55% inside the arc and 36% from deep, helping UAB reach the NIT quarterfinals.
He became just the second Division I player ever—alongside Larry Bird—to record 600+ points, 400+ rebounds, and 150+ assists in a single season. A two-time All-AAC first-teamer and Defensive Player of the Year, Lendeborg’s draft status adds uncertainty.
“I want a guaranteed contract… I would prefer to play college basketball in Ann Arbor than be in and out of the G League on a two-way,” he said.
2. G Elliot Cadeau, North Carolina
Michigan added a seasoned floor general in Cadeau, a 6’1″ point guard with elite court vision. He tallied 9.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists last season, leading North Carolina in assists.
In his freshman year, he chipped in 7.3 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per contest. Cadeau’s proven ability to distribute and manage the offense will be pivotal in anchoring the Wolverines’ backcourt.
3. F Morez Johnson Jr., Illinois
A 6’9″, 255-pound forward, Johnson showed strong rebounding instincts and athletic upside during his freshman year at Illinois. He averaged seven points and nearly seven boards in limited minutes.
Michigan Basketball Transfer Portal Update: Full List of Players Entering and Exiting
While still developing, his size and motor make him a valuable interior presence for the Wolverines.
4. C Aday Mara, UCLA
Mara, a 7-foot-3 Spanish big man, adds shot-blocking and size. Last season at UCLA, he averaged 6.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks while converting 59% from the field.
Despite averaging just 13 minutes, he recorded standout performances, including 22 points on perfect shooting against Wisconsin and double-doubles against USC and Northwestern. His impact hinges on continued development.
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