Michigan's Dusty May Aims to Build Consistent Title Contender

Wolverines coach believes program can compete for championships annually after recent national title win.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, geometric painting in bold blue, yellow, and red hues, capturing the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of a Michigan basketball game.Michigan's championship aspirations are deconstructed into a cubist masterpiece, reflecting the program's drive to remain a national power.Ann Arbor Today

Dusty May, the 49-year-old head coach of the Michigan Wolverines men's basketball team, is fresh off leading the program to its second national championship in school history. Despite the recent title, May is already focused on the future and believes Michigan can be a consistent national title contender year after year.

Why it matters

May's comments provide optimism for Michigan fans that the program can sustain its success and compete at the highest level on an annual basis, rather than just having sporadic championship runs. Maintaining that level of excellence is a challenge for any college basketball program.

The details

After winning the national title in 2026, May and his staff have quickly shifted their attention to the transfer portal and roster building for next season. May acknowledged the constant work required to keep a program at the top, even after achieving the ultimate goal. There has also been speculation about May's future, with his name linked to other high-profile openings, but the coach made it clear his family is settled in Ann Arbor and he is committed to making Michigan a consistent national title contender.

  • Michigan won its first national championship in 1989.
  • The Wolverines won their second national title under Dusty May in 2026.

The players

Dusty May

The 49-year-old head coach of the Michigan Wolverines men's basketball team, who led the program to its second national championship in 2026.

Eli May

Dusty May's son, who is currently a sophomore college student and student manager for the Michigan basketball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I think for all of those Michigan fans—they have nothing to worry about. Eli (May's son) is a sophomore in college right now and I can't see any scenario where I would take my son away from graduating from the University of Michigan and sharing this experience (Eli is a student manager with the team).”

— Dusty May, Head Coach, Michigan Wolverines

“We moved around a lot when we were young, Rich, and to find a place we've settled in and that feels like home—and we've very honored to be a part of this place. If there's ever a time where we don't feel like we can get it done here, that's when it's time to go. Otherwise, I think we can be consistent national championship contenders. And I love it at Michigan—very very proud to represent all of you.”

— Dusty May, Head Coach, Michigan Wolverines

What’s next

May and the Michigan coaching staff will continue their work in the transfer portal and roster building as they aim to keep the Wolverines among the nation's elite programs.

The takeaway

Dusty May's commitment to building Michigan into a consistent national title contender, coupled with his family's deep roots in Ann Arbor, provide optimism that the Wolverines can sustain their recent championship success for years to come.