​Michigan basketball underwent a notable upheaval this offseason when Dusty May abruptly left the program to pursue a head coaching role with the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA. In the interim, Mike Boynton Jr., the former Oklahoma State head coach who had spent the past two seasons as an assistant in Ann Arbor, was appointed to oversee the program on an acting basis. Boynton publicly pushed to remove the interim label, and while he worked to retain nearly the entire roster—and perhaps the entire group depending on LJ Cason’s decision—he was ultimately rewarded with a vote of confidence from the university.
According to a University of Michigan press release, Boynton has now been officially named the next head coach of the men’s basketball program, signing a two-year contract. The formal announcement comes with a detailed press release that includes remarks from athletic director Warde Manuel, former head coach Dusty May, and several players Boynton has coached, including Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham.
Warde Manuel, the Donald R. Shepherd Director of Athletics, announced on Friday, July 10, that Mike Boynton Jr. would take on the role of head coach of the Michigan men’s basketball program, now titled the David and Meredith Kaplan Men’s Basketball Head Coach. Boynton agreed to a two-year contract to lead the Wolverines and guide the program forward.
Boynton is entering his third season in Ann Arbor, having helped Michigan achieve what many view as one of the greatest two-year stretches in the program’s history. In his first two seasons on staff, the Wolverines posted an impressive 64-13 record, captured the 2025 Big Ten Tournament championship, secured the 2026 Big Ten regular-season title, and earned the program’s second NCAA national championship. Manuel praised Boynton’s impact, describing him as a veteran assistant with substantial head coaching experience and a clear understanding of the high standards expected at Michigan. “Over the past two seasons, he has been an invaluable member of our staff, bringing stability, leadership, and perspective during a crucial period of success. Our players and staff believe in his vision, are committed to his leadership, and are excited for the opportunity to pursue great success together this season,” Manuel said.
Michigan President Domenico Grasso also voiced strong support for Boynton, saying, “Coach Boynton has demonstrated exceptional leadership, unwavering integrity, and a deep commitment to the development of student-athletes throughout his career. I am confident he will build on our winning tradition, strengthen our culture of excellence, and lead our program in a manner that reflects the very best of the University of Michigan’s values.”
Boynton himself expressed appreciation for the opportunity and the confidence shown by the university. “I’m grateful to Warde for his confidence and thankful for the chance to lead this program,” he said. “We have built a championship culture and a standard that everyone associated with this program takes great pride in. We have an outstanding group of players, and I’m excited to get to work and continue the success we’ve established together.”
The press release also highlights Boynton’s role in Michigan’s recent success, noting the period as a historically significant era for the program. His leadership, the stability he has provided, and his track record of developing talent are touted as key strengths as Michigan looks to sustain its momentum on the court. The announcement underscores that Boynton’s appointment is part of a broader strategy to maintain continuity, capitalize on the program’s recent achievements, and continue to elevate Michigan’s status in the Big Ten and on the national stage.
In summary, after a season of transition marked by Dusty May’s departure and Boynton’s interim leadership, Michigan officially named Mike Boynton Jr. as the head coach, signing him to a two-year contract. The decision reflects the program’s confidence in his leadership, his vision for the team, and his ability to carry forward a championship culture that has become synonymous with Michigan men’s basketball in recent years. As the Wolverines prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Boynton’s approach to maintaining the standard of excellence, sustaining roster continuity, and guiding Michigan to continued success on and off the floor.