Dusty May Takes Helm as Dallas Mavericks Head Coach

The Dallas Mavericks have announced Dusty May as their new head coach, moving him from college basketball to the NBA, according to a league source reported by The Athletic.

Dusty May, aged 49, has earned recognition through his coaching success, including leading Florida Atlantic to the Final Four in 2023 and winning a national championship with Michigan earlier this year. He now takes responsibility for a Mavericks team featuring Rookie of the Year, Cooper Flagg.

May began his basketball career as a student manager at Indiana, working under the esteemed Bob Knight. His journey through the college ranks eventually led to his first head coaching position at Florida Atlantic in 2018. During his last two seasons at Florida Atlantic, the team amassed a record of 60-13. Subsequently, May transitioned to Michigan in 2024, achieving remarkable success.

At Michigan, the Wolverines improved notably, with a 27-10 record in the 2024-25 season, showing a 19-win increase from the previous season. In the following season, Michigan achieved a 37-3 record and triumphed over Connecticut in the national championship. Three of Michigan’s starters — Yaxel Lendeborg, Morez Johnson Jr., and Aday Mara — are anticipated future NBA first-round draft choices.

Before hiring May, Mavericks President Masai Ujiri decided to part ways with coach Jason Kidd, despite Kidd’s four-year contract worth more than $40 million. Ujiri ensured a comprehensive search for Kidd’s replacement, considering various coaches from both professional and college ranks.

San Antonio Spurs associate head coach Sean Sweeney was among the candidates but chose to accept the head coaching role with the Orlando Magic. Mavericks also interviewed Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori. Ujiri explored other college coaches, including Duke’s Jon Scheyer and Florida’s Todd Golden.

Ultimately, Ujiri selected May, following his role in leading one of the most commanding college teams in recent history during last season.