Five takeaways from Big Ten Media Day 2025-26

Share

Tweet

Print

Email

Dusty May, Nimari Burnett and Roddy Gayle Jr. were in Chicago representing Michigan at Big Ten Media Day on Thursday afternoon. It was the second preseason media check-in with the Wolverines this fall, with their exhibition opener against Cincinnati looming next Friday.

With four new coaches in the league, it was evident just how much more established the Wolverines feel in their second year under May. Not just because they are picked to finish second in the conference.

Last year, May was joined by Danny Wolf and Vlad Goldin to form a trio of representatives that were brand new to the league.

This year, May has a year under his belt and has brought in two players who are conference (and Michigan) vets: Gayle (fourth year in the league, second at Michigan) and Burnett (third year at Michigan).

A reminder that despite the flashy transfer class, there’s some foundation setting in May’s program.

1. Inconsistent availability means no rotation decisions

Dusty May made it clear that Michigan doesn’t know who its starters are quite yet or what lineup combinations work best. That’s not just because it is early October, but because the Wolverines have had some nagging bumps, bruises, and illnesses that have prevented them from getting the whole roster on the floor.

Morez Johnson Jr. is classified as day-to-day and has been sidelined. LJ Cason has also missed time, and his status is in doubt for Michigan’s upcoming exhibition games. Several other players have missed time due to minor injuries and illnesses.

“We have some bumps and bruises, and we’re very, very cautious this early in the season,” May said. “And so yeah, there are a few guys I don’t know if LJ will play (early). Our season is long. We want to be our best in March, and anytime some guys are out, it gives you an opportunity to look at maybe a guy that wouldn’t have played in real-life situations. So our response to the injuries is always good. Whatever it is, good will be better off long term because of it.”

While the injuries have led to guys like Oscar Goodman and Malick Kordel getting reps, and even Will Tschetter going back to the five at stints, they’ve made it tough to piece together a firm rotation.

May said a starting lineup is still very much up in the air, even though the Wolverines take the court next week.

“No, we’ve had so many guys out that it’s tough to tell. Obviously, I think Roddy and Nimari, the two guys here, have really solidified themselves as guys who are going to be counted on. Elliot Cadeau… LJ has been out the last couple of weeks with an injury, and they were battling… So up front, I’m not really sure yet. I mean, obviously, Yaxel is one of the more talented players in the league, so it comes down to health and timing and whatever else with that other spot. But we just haven’t had our group together to figure out the right pieces, yet.”