Dusty May Steps Up as Mavericks’ New Head Coach

The Dallas Mavericks have appointed Dusty May as their head coach, transitioning him from college basketball to the NBA. This decision was confirmed by a league source to The Athletic.

Dusty May recently won a national championship with Michigan, following a successful tenure leading Florida Atlantic to the Final Four in 2023. Now, he will guide a Mavericks team featuring Cooper Flagg, the reigning Rookie of the Year.

At 49, May began his basketball journey as a student manager at Indiana under the legendary Bob Knight. His career advanced through various collegiate roles before he became head coach at Florida Atlantic in 2018. Under his leadership, the Owls achieved a combined 60-13 record during his last two seasons before May moved to Michigan in 2024.

May’s impact at Michigan was significant. The Wolverines improved their record to 27-10 in 2024-25, a standout 19-win increase from the prior season. Last season, they finished with a 37-3 record and captured the national championship by defeating Connecticut. Three of Michigan’s starters—Yaxel Lendeborg, Morez Johnson Jr., and Aday Mara—are anticipated to become first-round picks in the upcoming NBA Draft.

Earlier this year, Mavericks president Masai Ujiri decided to replace coach Jason Kidd, despite Kidd having four years left on his $40 million contract. Ujiri promised a comprehensive search for Kidd’s replacement.

The Mavericks considered San Antonio Spurs associate head coach Sean Sweeney, but Sweeney opted for the Orlando Magic head coaching position. They also interviewed Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori. Ujiri explored options extensively from the college ranks, considering candidates like Duke’s Jon Scheyer and Florida’s Todd Golden.

Eventually, Ujiri selected Dusty May, who led one of the most formidable college teams last season. May’s coaching pedigree and recent success made him the ideal choice for the Mavericks.