Photo: Robert Deutsch ~ Imagn Images
Ann Arbor, Mich. ~ Dusty May’s story took yet another unexpected turn Monday, one that feels almost surreal if you’ve followed his rise. Just months after leading Michigan to a national championship, the program’s first in decades, May is reportedly leaving Ann Arbor to become the next head coach of the Dallas Mavericks. The move shakes both college basketball and the NBA, not only because of the timing, but because of how quickly everything has developed.
SOCIAL MEDIA
(CONTINUED) What stands out most is how quickly May built something at Michigan. In just two seasons, he took over a program searching for identity and transformed it into a national title winner. Before that, he guided Florida Atlantic to an improbable Final Four run in 2023, establishing himself as one of the sport’s rising coaches. Now, he is leaving at what appears to be the peak, a decision that feels like both ideal timing and a significant blow for a Michigan fan base that expected sustained success.
It is difficult not to see both sides. On one hand, May’s path, from student manager to NBA head coach, reflects a rare and remarkable rise. On the other, his departure leaves behind a locker room, a roster and a fan base that had fully bought in. His move to Dallas underscores the level of belief in his leadership, while also serving as a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change in college basketball.
