L.J. Cason emerging as key contributor for Michigan basketball

Sophomore guard has stepped up his game over the last four contests

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Over the last four games, sophomore guard L.J. Cason has upped his play and stacked consistent performances off the bench for the Michigan Wolverines basketball team. Cason is averaging 12.8 points, 3.5 assists and a steal per game during this stretch, shooting 54.8% from the field, 46.7% from 3-point range, and 83.3% from the free throw line.

Why it matters

As Michigan enters the final stretch of the Big Ten schedule, they will need contributions from everyone on the roster to capture the regular-season crown. Cason's emergence as a consistent scoring threat and playmaker off the bench makes the Wolverines more difficult to beat, especially when he is playing at a high level.

The details

Cason has been running the point guard position, playing alongside Elliot Cadeau in the backcourt, and making sound decisions whether it's scoring or creating for teammates. Against UCLA, he knocked down two 3-pointers, had an and-1 layup, and fed Morez Johnson Jr. for a basket, helping Michigan pull away in the second half.

  • Over the last four games

The players

L.J. Cason

A sophomore guard for the Michigan Wolverines basketball team who has stepped up his play over the last four games.

Dusty May

The head coach of the Michigan Wolverines basketball team.

Elliot Cadeau

A guard for the Michigan Wolverines basketball team who Cason has been playing alongside.

Morez Johnson Jr.

A player for the Michigan Wolverines basketball team who Cason has assisted.

Cazzie Russell

The only Michigan men's basketball player whose jersey number is retired, and who attended the game to celebrate the anniversary of several past Michigan teams.

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What they’re saying

“L.J. Cason is playing as well as just about any guard in our league the last couple games. He's a sophomore that's waited his turn. He's been patient. He's stayed the course. He's growing up in front of our eyes, and I'm not talking about just his performance.”

— Dusty May, Head Coach (detroitnews.com)

“I feel like I'm being more of an impactful player, being more of a point guard, more of a leader, and being vocal. I think my preparation in practice has been better than usual. In basketball, there's ups and downs. I think this is part of my ups throughout the season.”

— L.J. Cason (detroitnews.com)

“To actually spend time with them and talk to them, it brought joy to my heart, because these guys laid the foundation. It's a beautiful thing, and just having these guys around is amazing.”

— Nimari Burnett, Guard (detroitnews.com)

The takeaway

Cason's emergence as a consistent scoring threat and playmaker off the bench makes the Wolverines a more complete team as they push for the Big Ten regular-season title. His growth and development have been crucial to Michigan's success this season.