March Madness is underway and today's college stars have a chance to cement themselves in this summer's NBA draft class. The 2026 draft is expected to take place in late June. In USA TODAY's latest mock draft, Michigan's Morez Johnson Jr. is expected to go in the first round.

Here's how USA TODAY currently projects the forward's draft night will play out.

Morez Johnson Jr. 2026 NBA Draft prediction: Pick No. 25 overall, New York Knicks

All picks based on Tankathon lottery projection

Kalbrosky's Analysis:

Morez Johnson Jr. is one of the best, most underrated two-way players in the NCAA. He is a crucial part of the Michigan identity this season and has thrived since transferring to the Wolverines from Illinois. Johnson's shooting form at the free throw line looks good, and he scores well near the rim, especially when cutting to the basket. The former FIBA U-19 Team USA standout and All-Big Ten big man is a trustworthy defensive playmaker, too, and should find minutes at the next level.

See USA TODAY's full mock draft here

Morez Johnson Jr. player profile

(all stats as of March 15)

• Position: Forward
• Current Team: Michigan
• 13.1 points per game
• 7.2 rebounds per game
• 1.1 assists per game
• 62.8% field goal percentage
• 37.9% three-point field goal percentage

New York Knicks 2026 projected draft picks

• No. 26, No. 33 (via WAS) and No. 56

All picks based on Tankathon lottery projection

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Morez Johnson Jr. NBA mock draft projection: Where Michigan star is expected to land

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