Michigan Locks in Dusty May with New Multiyear Deal, Ending Indiana Speculation
In a move that has sent ripples through the college basketball world, Michigan men’s basketball coach Dusty May has agreed to a new multiyear agreement with the school. This announcement was made by athletic director Warde Manuel on Friday, effectively removing May from consideration for the head coach vacancy at Indiana.
Dusty May, who has deep roots with Indiana as a former student manager under the legendary Bob Knight from 1996 to 2000, was widely expected to be a top contender to replace Mike Woodson. However, May has chosen to solidify his future with Michigan, a decision that comes as the Wolverines sit atop the Big Ten standings, gearing up for a high-stakes showdown against Michigan State.
Warde Manuel expressed his enthusiasm in a statement, saying, “I am excited to announce that Dusty and I have agreed to a new multi-year contract. His commitment to this University and the success of the men’s basketball program has far exceeded our expectations and makes us all excited for what the future holds. I look forward to Dusty, Anna, and his family remaining a part of the fabric of this University and community for many years to come.”
May himself shared his gratitude and vision for the program, stating, “I am grateful to Warde, U-M President Santa Ono, and all the members of the Board of Regents for the trust and support they have given me as the head coach. My goal is to bring continued success to this historic program. We cannot reach that goal without the hard work that my staff and players put into this program. We have built a solid foundation; however, there is much more work to be done. I look forward to those challenges and what the future holds for me and my family in Ann Arbor.”
May’s journey to Michigan began last spring after a successful six-year stint at Florida Atlantic. He became a household name in 2023 when he led the Owls to the Final Four as a 9-seed, finishing with an impressive 35-4 record. The following season, he guided them back to the NCAA tournament, securing 25 wins. As a highly sought-after candidate on the coaching carousel, May ultimately chose to step into the shoes of Juwan Howard in Ann Arbor.
University of Michigan President Santa Ono also expressed his excitement, saying, “I am thrilled that Dusty will be with us long term. I want to thank Warde for his outstanding leadership and for getting this done.”
As of Friday, Michigan boasts a 20-5 overall record and a 12-2 mark in league play. The No. 12 Wolverines are riding a six-game winning streak, a testament to May’s effective leadership and the team’s hard work.
After Michigan’s victory over Indiana on February 8, May was asked about the possibility of replacing Woodson at his alma mater. He responded with clarity and conviction, “I love being at Michigan. I love our team. We’re fighting like crazy. That’s it. This place is my foundation, but I’m very, very happy at the University of Michigan. Came here to win a game, and mission accomplished.”
He further emphasized his commitment, adding, “There’s nothing I can say that’s going to make this one way or the other. I love being at Michigan. That hasn’t crossed my mind other than just what friends and family have said, and to be honest, I’ve eliminated all that.”
Indiana, on the other hand, announced earlier this month that Mike Woodson would be stepping down at the end of the season. Woodson, an Indiana alum, has been at the helm of the Hoosiers for four seasons, leading them to the NCAA tournament in his first two years but facing challenges in the subsequent seasons.
- Michigan’s current record: 20-5 overall, 12-2 in league play
- Michigan’s current ranking: No. 12
- Dusty May’s previous record at Florida Atlantic: 35-4 in 2023
- Indiana’s coaching change: Mike Woodson stepping down
Originally Written by: Jeff Borzello
