BREAKING NEWS:  Ann Arbor, MI — Michigan Wolverines Playmaker Center Danny Wolf Withdraws from the NBA Draft to Finish his Remaining College Eligibility, Pledges Commitment to the Maize and Blue. See full details

BREAKING NEWS: Michigan Wolverines Star Center Danny Wolf Withdraws from NBA Draft, Recommits to Finish College Eligibility

Ann Arbor, MI — June 28, 2025
In a stunning and electrifying development for Michigan basketball fans, standout center Danny Wolf has officially withdrawn from the 2025 NBA Draft, declaring his intention to return to the University of Michigan and complete his remaining college eligibility. The announcement, made early Saturday morning, sent shockwaves across the college basketball landscape and reignited championship hopes in Ann Arbor.

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A Game-Changing Decision

Wolf’s return is more than just a roster update — it’s a game-changer. Standing at 6-foot-10, the versatile big man had garnered national attention with his stellar play during the 2024–25 season, where he averaged 15.3 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, while shooting nearly 39% from beyond the arc. His combination of size, court vision, and perimeter shooting had NBA scouts projecting him as a potential late-first to early-second round pick.

Yet, Wolf opted for something beyond draft boards and pre-draft workouts. In his own words:

> “This program, this fanbase, and this jersey mean more to me than any early draft projection. I want to finish what we started. I’m coming back to the Maize and Blue — not just to play, but to lead.”

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The Context: Why Wolf’s Return Matters

Wolf transferred to Michigan last year from Yale, where he had already established himself as one of the most promising frontcourt players in the Ivy League. Upon joining the Wolverines, he immediately earned a starting role and became a pillar of the team on both ends of the floor. His ability to stretch the floor as a center gave Michigan’s offense a dynamic it sorely lacked in previous seasons.

With Michigan undergoing a coaching transition after the departure of Juwan Howard and the arrival of Head Coach Dusty May, Wolf became one of the few constants in the locker room — a stabilizing force on and off the court. His leadership, experience, and unselfishness helped galvanize a young roster that grew throughout the season, eventually advancing to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.

With key contributors like Nimari Burnett graduating and several underclassmen still developing, Wolf’s return ensures that the Wolverines will not be rebuilding — they’ll be contending.

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Coach Dusty May Reacts

Head Coach Dusty May didn’t hide his excitement when asked about Wolf’s decision:

> “Danny is the heart of this team. His decision to return speaks volumes about his character, his belief in our program, and his desire to build a legacy here. We’re incredibly proud to have him back. This is a championship mindset.”

May, who was hired after a strong run with Florida Atlantic and quickly won over the Michigan faithful with his high-tempo offense and emphasis on player development, now has a cornerstone to build around. With Wolf anchoring the paint and stretching the floor, May can further unleash his dynamic offensive schemes and develop the young talent around him.

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Implications for the Big Ten and Beyond

With Wolf returning, Michigan is instantly considered one of the frontrunners in the Big Ten Conference for the 2025–26 season. The conference has seen major shifts in talent, with multiple stars declaring for the draft and others entering the transfer portal. Michigan, now with a returning All-Big Ten caliber center, not only boasts stability but also one of the most matchup-proof bigs in the league.

Opposing coaches will now have to game-plan for a player who can rebound, protect the rim, initiate fast breaks, and shoot the three — all from the five position. If May and his staff can integrate new recruits and transfers effectively, Michigan could be looking at its first Final Four appearance since 2018.

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Wolf’s Legacy in the Making

For Danny Wolf, this decision is about more than basketball — it’s about loyalty, development, and unfinished business. Returning to Ann Arbor gives him the opportunity to:

Sharpen his game and boost his draft stock

Cement himself as one of the all-time great centers in Michigan history

Lead the Wolverines in a deep March Madness run

Serve as a mentor to rising stars on the roster

Fans have already taken to social media to express their jubilation. “We’re back!” and “Wolfpack stays home!” trended on X (formerly Twitter) within minutes of the announcement.

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Final Thoughts

Danny Wolf’s return is a seismic moment for Michigan basketball — a rare instance where a high-level player puts long-term growth and loyalty above short-term NBA opportunities. It’s a move that reflects maturity, vision, and a deep connection to the Maize and Blue.

As summer workouts begin and preseason rankings are soon to be unveiled, Michigan has gained more than just a star center — they’ve gained a leader who believes in the power of staying the course.

And for fans inside Crisler Center, there’s one thing on their minds: Banner-hunting season is back on.

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#GoBlue | #WolfReturns | #MichiganBasketball | #MaizeAndBlueForever