The future of Michigan basketball players Aday Mara and Will Johnson Jr. is a central topic of discussion as they consider their options for the 2026 NBA Draft.

Aday Mara Likely Headed to the NBA

Aday Mara is widely considered a likely first-round pick and is almost certain to declare for the NBA Draft. His talent and potential make him a highly sought-after prospect.

Will Johnson Jr.'s Complex Decision

Will Johnson Jr.’s decision is more nuanced. Current mock drafts project him as a late first-round selection, potentially between the 18th and 20th overall pick.

The Impact of NIL and Draft Flexibility

The evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, provides a compelling reason for Johnson Jr. to consider returning to school. Players can now participate in the NBA Draft process – including the Combine – without signing with an agent.

This allows them to gather information and assess their draft stock before committing to a professional career. This flexibility is a significant factor in Johnson Jr.’s potential decision-making process.

The NBA Combine and Tim McCormick's Advice

The NBA Combine, scheduled for May 10-17, is a crucial opportunity for players to showcase their skills to NBA scouts and executives. Following the Combine, players have a ten-day window to decide whether to remain in the draft or return to college.

Former Michigan legend Tim McCormick recently argued strongly for Johnson Jr. to return to Ann Arbor, drawing parallels to the situation of current Michigan player Tarris Reed Jr. Reed transferred to Michigan after participating in the Combine to further develop his game under coach Dusty May.

McCormick’s reasoning centers on the idea of ‘betting on yourself’ – recognizing that continued development in a structured college environment can significantly improve a player’s draft stock.

Reed's Trajectory and Johnson Jr.'s Potential

Reed’s trajectory exemplifies this strategy; he was projected as a first-round pick last season but is now widely expected to be a lottery pick in the upcoming draft. Johnson Jr. finds himself in a similar position.

He could enter the draft as a late first-round prospect, or he could return to Michigan and become the focal point of the Wolverines’ frontcourt, especially with Mara’s likely departure.

Expanding Johnson Jr.'s Skillset

While Michigan will likely pursue another big man through the transfer portal, Johnson Jr. is poised to be a dominant force in the post. Returning to Michigan offers Johnson Jr. a valuable opportunity to expand his skillset, particularly his perimeter game.

He demonstrated improvement in his three-point shooting this season, connecting on 34.3% of his attempts after struggling from beyond the arc at Illinois. McCormick emphasizes the importance of continuing this progress and adding the ability to create shots off the dribble.

Developing perimeter skills will elevate Johnson Jr.’s potential from a role player to a consistent starter and contributor in the NBA. Ultimately, the decision rests with Johnson Jr., but a return to Michigan for another season appears to be a strategically sound move.

This analysis is brought to you by Trent, who has been covering Michigan athletics since 2020.