From FAU Cinderella to Big Ten Dominance: Dusty May’s Historic First Season at Michigan
In a stunning reversal of fortunes, first-year Michigan coach Dusty May has transformed last season’s 8-24 Wolverines into Big Ten championship contenders – and college basketball’s most compelling story.
Record-Breaking Start
Through February 21, 2025, May’s Wolverines boast a 20-5 overall record (12-2 Big Ten), already surpassing their entire 2023-24 win total. Their current seven-game winning streak includes victories over No. 11 Wisconsin and No. 7 Purdue, with Michigan rising to No. 13 in the CBS Sports Top 25 rankings.
Rivalry Game Showdown
All eyes turn to Friday night’s clash against No. 11 Michigan State (21-5), where a win would give Michigan:
- A two-game Big Ten standings lead
- Their first top-15 ranking since November 2021
- Control of the conference title race
Coaching Masterclass
May’s $3.75M/year contract already looks like a bargain after he:
| Stat | 2023-24 | 2024-25 |
|---|---|---|
| Home Record | 6-10 | 12-0 |
| vs Ranked Teams | 0-8 | 4-2 |
| Big Ten Wins | 3 | 12 |
Recruiting Revolution
The former Florida Atlantic coach completely rebuilt Michigan’s roster in weeks:
- Added 8 transfers including FAU star Vladislav Goldin
- Developed Goldin into All-Big Ten candidate (20 PPG/10 RPG)
- Created nation’s No. 3 offense (82.1 PPG)
“Every game I watched growing up, this rivalry meant everything. Now we’re living it.” – Dusty May on Michigan vs MSU
Contract Extension Talks
Sources confirm Michigan is finalizing a multi-year extension for May following Thursday’s breakthrough win over Ohio State. The deal would lock down CBS Sports’ 2023 National Coach of Year through at least 2030.
