The Michigan Wolverines just won a National Championship, and while that has given them bragging rights, it hasn't given them a free pass to successfully recruit any prospect or player that they set their sights on.
That much has become readily apparent in Michigan's recruitment efforts for four-star transfer center Moustapha Thiam, who entered the portal after a season with the Cincinnati Bearcats.
While the Wolverines might have the natty in their pocket, Michigan and head coach Dusty May are going up against powerhouse programs in Thiam's recruitment, including the Kansas Jayhawks, Arkansas Razorbacks, and St. John's Red Storm.
Wolverines aren't alone in targeting Moustapha Thiam
Thiam just visited Ann Arbor, spending time with the Wolverines on their home court, but is also fresh off a visit to St. John's, and it should come as no surprise if he takes trips to see the two other programs before he makes a final decision.
Source: Cincinnati transfer Moustapha Thiam will visit Michigan on Monday.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) April 19, 2026
Recently visited St. John's.
Averaged 12.8 PPG and 7.1 RPG last season.
The center started his collegiate career at UCF, averaging 10.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.6 blocks, 0.7 assists, and 0.5 steals per game. Then, during his one season at Cincinnati, he earned 12.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, 0.5 assists, and 0.8 steals per game, improving in nearly every category.
Standing at 7-foot-2 and 250 pounds, in addition to his impressive in-game growth over the last year, it should come as no surprise that teams across the country want Thiam on their roster.
Michigan basketball felt good about Moustapha Thiam’s visit earlier this week. Now, the Wolverines are trying to hold off other powers like St. John’s, Kansas and Arkansas for their top big target.
— Tony Garcia | Detroit Free Press (@RealTonyGarcia) April 23, 2026
“Really good people, great kid, think our goals align.”https://t.co/3Q599AM7Le
Yes, Michigan is the dream spot for a lot of college basketball players, especially after last season. However, May is having to go up against blue-blood programs and coaches in Kansas and Bill Self, Arkansas and Jon Calipari, and St. John's and Rick Pitino.
According to reports, May and his staff felt good about Thiam's visit, going as far as to say, "Really good people, great kid, think our goals align," but there is still a long road ahead.
Thiam hasn't set a commitment date yet, but Wovlerine fans should keep their eyes wide open for news suggesting that he is leaning in any direction.
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