In an unexpected twist that has sent shockwaves through the Michigan Wolverines basketball community, head coach Dusty May made a surprise announcement during a press conference earlier today. The new coach, who recently transitioned from a successful run with Florida Atlantic University to take over the helm in Ann Arbor, declared that star center Vladislav Goldin will not only return for the upcoming season but has also been named the new team captain.
The announcement stunned fans, media, and even some members within the program, as Goldin had largely been expected to declare for the NBA Draft following an impressive 2024-2025 season. Instead, he has committed to leading a rebuilding Michigan squad in what could be a transformative year for the program.
Coach Dusty May, who officially began his tenure with Michigan just weeks ago, addressed the media from the Crisler Center on Thursday morning. Flanked by athletic director Warde Manuel and assistant coaches, May appeared relaxed but purposeful.
“Today, I’m proud to announce that Vladislav Goldin will be returning for his senior season and will serve as our team captain,” May said. “His leadership, experience, and work ethic are exactly what this team needs as we build a new chapter of Michigan basketball.”
The room fell silent for a moment before gasps and murmurs rippled through reporters and staff. Goldin, a 7-foot-1 standout who followed May from FAU, was widely believed to be NBA-bound. Instead, he’s opted to postpone his professional aspirations and commit to guiding the Wolverines into a new era.
Fan Reactions: A Mix of Shock and Celebration
The announcement set off a storm of reactions online, with Wolverine fans expressing disbelief and jubilation in equal measure.
“I’m still processing this. Dusty May is BUILDING something special, and Goldin staying? Unreal,” wrote @GoBlueJay on X (formerly Twitter). Another fan, posting under the name @AnnArborHoops, added, “This is the type of news that changes the entire outlook of a season. We just got a captain with NBA-level talent. Let’s go!”
One fan, interviewed outside the university’s student center, was nearly speechless: “Goldin staying? Captain? Wow. I didn’t see that coming. This changes everything.”
The Goldin Effect
Goldin, who averaged 15.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game last season, was instrumental in FAU’s back-to-back NCAA tournament appearances under May. A dominant force in the paint, Goldin combines size, finesse, and high basketball IQ—qualities rarely found in college big men.
“Vlad’s decision shows he believes in what we’re doing here,” Coach May said. “He had offers, he had opportunities. But he wants to lead, and that’s exactly what Michigan needs.”
Goldin himself appeared briefly after the press conference to speak with reporters.
“I love Coach May. He’s helped me grow not just as a player, but as a person,” Goldin said. “Michigan is a storied program. To be named captain here—it’s an honor I don’t take lightly. I’m here to win.”
His decision to stay also underscores his loyalty to Coach May, with whom he built a strong bond at FAU. Insiders say Goldin’s leadership will be crucial in helping the Wolverines integrate new talent, especially as the team reshapes after a tumultuous few seasons.
Dusty May’s hiring was itself a bold move by Michigan, signaling a departure from the struggles of the past few years. With May now officially installed and bringing some of his core players along—including Goldin and potentially others from FAU—Michigan is poised to climb back into national contention.
Team chemistry and leadership will be crucial, and May believes Goldin is the perfect anchor.
“He’s respected in the locker room. He leads by example. He’ll be the guy who makes sure our culture is strong, that we play the right way,” May emphasized.
With Goldin returning and wearing the captain’s armband, Michigan’s roster suddenly looks far more promising. Recruiting efforts have intensified, and the presence of a dominant veteran big man may help attract additional top-tier transfers or freshmen.
Analysts are already adjusting their projections for the 2025-26 season, with ESPN’s Joe Lunardi tweeting that Michigan is now “a sleeper Sweet 16 team—if not more.”
The Wolverines’ first major test will come in November during the Maui Invitational, where they’ll face top programs like Kansas, Duke, and Gonzaga. With Goldin leading the charge, fans are now hopeful Michigan can not only compete—but contend.
As for the fans, they’re not just shocked anymore. They’re ready