Overview

• May said Michigan has a high ceiling and “can compete with every single team in the country,” as the Wolverines enter the preseason tracking as a top‑10 team in major polls.
• Michigan’s mix features improved returners Nimari Burnett, Roddy Gayle Jr., Will Tschetter and L.J. Cason alongside transfers Yaxel Lendeborg, Elliot Cadeau, Morez Johnson Jr. and Aday Mara.
• Practice data that May reviews daily show better assist‑to‑turnover control and improved three‑point shooting, with Cadeau, Gayle and Lendeborg frequently initiating the offense.
• May set a defense‑first identity built on size, athleticism and physicality, highlighting rim protection and lob threats with Mara, Johnson and Malick Kordel; NBA alumni Vlad Goldin and Danny Wolf noted the team’s increased strength.
• Health and schedule notes include Cason’s recent ankle sprain, Johnson sitting out practice with a minor issue, exhibitions in late October that include Cincinnati, and discussion of a possible St. John’s showcase at Madison Square Garden that has not been finalized.