​On Friday afternoon, Mike Boynton Jr. was formally named the permanent head coach of the Michigan men’s basketball program. The official announcement came with a press release that featured reflections from several former Wolverines, including Dusty May, John Beilein, and others, who offered their support and praise for Boynton’s appointment.
Dusty May, who currently serves as the head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, praised Boynton as an exceptional choice to guide Michigan. May highlighted Boynton’s dedication to the program since his arrival, noting that he has invested everything he has into Michigan. He described Boynton as an outstanding coach and an even better person, emphasizing that the players trust him because of the daily effort he puts in. May expressed pride in Boynton and his family—Jen, Ace, and Zoe—and asserted that no one is more deserving of the opportunity. He was confident that Boynton would excel in leading Michigan.
John Beilein, the retired Michigan men’s basketball coach, offered high praise for Boynton’s qualifications. Beilein called Boynton an excellent coach with valuable experience as a head coach at a high-major level, asserting that he is the right person for the job at the right time to become Michigan’s next head coach. He spoke about Boynton’s strong connection with the current roster, asserting that this bond would enable Boynton to maximize the potential of the players. Beilein noted his conversations with Boynton over the past two seasons at Michigan, emphasizing Boynton’s deep knowledge of the game, his engaging personality, and his solid relationships with both the staff and players. He expressed belief that Boynton would extract the best from a very talented team and added that, as always, he would be rooting for Boynton and the Wolverines this season, concluding with a “Go Blue!”
Yaxel Lendeborg, a Consensus All-American, the Big Ten Player of the Year, and an NCAA National Champion who played at Michigan and now competes for the Golden State Warriors, also offered his thoughts. He stated that Boynton had been there for him from day one, challenging him, believing in him, and pushing him to reach his full potential. Lendeborg described Boynton’s role in their season’s successes and said that seeing him become the head coach was “awesome,” given how much Boynton cares about Michigan and everyone within the program. He said he was confident Boynton would do a great job.
Cade Cunningham, the 2021 No. 1 overall NBA Draft pick, an NBA All-Star with the Detroit Pistons, and a former standout at Oklahoma State under Boynton, shared his perspective as well. He noted that Boynton had a profound impact on his life, believing in him, trusting him, and pushing him to become the best version of himself. Cunningham expressed happiness for Boynton and his family, recognizing how much the opportunity means to all of them. He complimented Michigan on obtaining an outstanding coach who is, more importantly, an extraordinary person. Cunningham stressed that Boynton deserves this opportunity and expressed excitement to witness his future accomplishments.
Terry Mills, a 1989 national champion and current radio analyst for Michigan men’s basketball, spoke about the personal connections Boynton builds. Mills described Boynton as genuine and caring toward the players, a basketball-focused individual who has earned the opportunity through hard work. He shared his happiness for Boynton, recognizing the importance of this moment in his career and in Michigan basketball’s ongoing journey. Mills also added that Boynton’s ascent to head coach reflects well on the program’s culture and direction.
The overarching sentiment from these former Michigan figures is one of strong support and anticipation for Boynton’s leadership. They highlighted his work ethic, his strong relationships with players and staff, and his ability to connect with and inspire the team. They agree that Michigan has secured not only a highly capable basketball mind but also a person of notable character who genuinely cares about the program’s future. The reaction from the Michigan community reflects optimism about the continued growth and success of the team under Boynton’s guidance.