Mavericks news: Morez Johnson Jr. tries to get Dusty May to strike a pose

Dallas Mavericks rookie Morez Johnson Jr. demonstrated his knack for eliciting reactions during a recent NBA Media Day photoshoot with head coach Dusty May. In a 12-second clip, May was captured posing with a basketball while Johnson provided coaching instructions from behind the camera. Johnson urged May to assume a "mean mug" expression, repeating the request until the coach finally succumbed to laughter.

This playful banter between the two is no surprise, as they share a long history together. May coached Johnson during his sophomore season at Michigan, during which the Wolverines secured the 2026 NCAA championship. Upon joining the Mavericks in June, the pair reunited, with Johnson selected by Dallas in the first round of the draft.

Johnson's college career began at Illinois before he transferred to Michigan, where he established himself as the team's defensive cornerstone. He averaged 13.1 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, shooting 62.3% from the field, earning All-Big Ten and All-Defensive team accolades. During the NBA Summer League, Johnson showcased his scoring ability, putting up 27 points and eight rebounds against the Golden State Warriors.

With Dallas managing Dereck Lively II's health and rotations, Johnson is poised to make an immediate impact in the frontcourt, potentially bolstering the team's depth.