DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks have finalized the signing of first-round draft pick Morez Johnson Jr., officially adding the ninth overall selection from the 2026 NBA Draft to the roster. As is standard team policy, contract details were not disclosed.
Johnson arrives in Dallas following a championship season at Michigan, where the 6-foot-9, 255-pound forward/center played a key role in leading the Wolverines to the 2026 NCAA National Championship. Michigan finished with a program-best 37-3 record while capturing its first national title since 1989.
In 40 starts, Johnson averaged 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.1 blocks per game. He shot 62.3% from the field, 34.3% from beyond the arc and 78.2% from the free-throw line, showcasing an efficient offensive game to complement his defensive presence.
His production earned him Second-Team All-Big Ten and Big Ten All-Defensive Team honors, highlighting his impact on both ends of the floor throughout the season.
Johnson is expected to make his Mavericks debut during the 2026 NBA Summer League, where Dallas will begin evaluating how the talented rookie fits into the organization’s long-term plans. His size, versatility and defensive instincts provide the Mavericks with another promising young frontcourt piece as the franchise continues to build for the future.
