A new era is undeniably underway at the University of Michigan as they set their sights on landing their biggest transfer yet. The transformation began with a significant shift: Juwan Howard was replaced by FAU’s Dusty May, who has wasted no time in reshaping the Wolverines’ roster. In the wake of losing every key contributor from the 2023-24 team except Nimari Burnett, May swiftly utilized the transfer portal to bolster the squad with significant talent and fresh incoming freshmen.
This revamped roster marks a stark contrast to last season’s 8-24 record, the worst in Michigan’s history. Aiming to further elevate their competitiveness, the Wolverines are now in the hunt for Jamir Watkins, a highly-touted transfer who averaged 15.6 points, six rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game at Florida State last season. Watkins, who recently withdrew from the NBA Draft, has narrowed his choices to five schools: Cincinnati, Kansas State, Oregon, St. John’s, and Michigan.
According to CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein, and hinted at by Coach Dusty May on the Defend the Block Podcast, Watkins is precisely the kind of high-impact player Michigan is eager to recruit. “We’re working with urgency, but without panic. Sometimes, a significant player can become available unexpectedly, and you must be ready,” May explained.
The Wolverines are serious contenders for Watkins, who is scheduled to visit Michigan this weekend. Coach May’s quick action has already brought in key additions such as Vlad Goldin, Roddy Gayle Jr, Rubin Jones, Tre Donaldson, Danny Wolf, and Sam Walters. Securing Watkins could significantly boost the Wolverines’ chances of contending in the Big Ten this fall, a remarkable turnaround from last year’s struggles.