
The Michigan Wolverines are heading into the offseason with a sense of urgency after a disappointing loss to the Auburn Tigers in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. A valiant effort ended with Michigan falling short in the tournament, but with the right moves and mindset heading into next season, the team could be poised for a championship-level run under new head coach Dusty May.

May, who took over the Michigan program with big plans, quickly made his mark by reshaping the Wolverines’ roster. His approach has been aggressive, bringing in a mix of experienced transfers and high-potential recruits. Among the most notable moves was the addition of four key transfers: three big men to shore up the frontcourt and a skilled point guard to help guide the offense. But while much of the attention has been on the new faces, one overlooked incoming player is starting to make waves—and that player is Winters Grady, a four-star forward from Oregon.
Grady may not have the same headline-grabbing profile as some of the Wolverines’ other additions, but his recent social media post has made it clear that he’s coming to Michigan with a chip on his shoulder and big aspirations for the upcoming season. On Monday, Grady posted a message on his social media account (formerly known as Twitter, now X) that read, “Gonna shock everyone ,” alongside a picture of himself donning a Michigan Wolverines jersey. The post, though brief, was packed with confidence and anticipation, signaling to Wolverine Nation that Grady believes he’s about to make a significant impact on the program.
This confident declaration isn’t just a reflection of Grady’s personality; it’s a statement about his mindset heading into what could be a pivotal season for Michigan basketball. The Wolverines, after all, have high hopes for the future, and the addition of Grady could prove to be one of the more impactful moves for the team this offseason.
The Path to Michigan
Grady’s journey to Michigan has been one of steady growth, from a promising high school prospect in Oregon to a player ready to take the next step at one of the most storied programs in college basketball. Standing at 6-foot-8, Grady is a versatile forward with a combination of size, athleticism, and skill that makes him an intriguing fit for Michigan’s system under Dusty May.
As a four-star recruit, Grady was highly sought after in the recruiting world. He had offers from several major programs across the country, but he chose to commit to Michigan for its combination of basketball culture, competitive environment, and the opportunity to thrive under a coach like May. The decision to come to Michigan is paying off, as Grady is being positioned to contribute in a variety of ways, from the forward spots to potentially seeing time as a wing, depending on how May chooses to use him.
What makes Grady especially intriguing is his versatility. He is not just a power forward or a traditional big man. Instead, Grady possesses the ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, attack the rim with his athleticism, and guard multiple positions. This makes him a valuable piece for May, who is known for his ability to adapt his system to the strengths of his players. Grady’s skills could allow him to thrive in multiple roles, whether as a floor-spacing big, a defensive stopper, or even a secondary playmaker.
Grady’s Message: Confidence and Expectations
The simple yet bold message Grady posted on social media has sparked a flurry of excitement among Michigan fans. “Gonna shock everyone 2” is more than just a catchy phrase; it speaks volumes about the player’s mindset heading into a crucial season. Grady is clearly not content to simply be a role player or a secondary contributor. Instead, he sees himself as someone who can step up and help lead the Wolverines to new heights, all while proving the doubters wrong.
There’s an underlying confidence in Grady’s statement that suggests he’s not just here to make an impact—he’s here to make a big one. In his mind, the expectations are clear: he believes he has the potential to exceed the hype, outplay his critics, and contribute to a championship-level team. It’s not just about showing up for the season—it’s about proving that he belongs among the top players in college basketball.
For Michigan fans, Grady’s message is a refreshing sign of the type of attitude needed to compete for a national title. While other players may be focused on proving their worth, Grady is already setting his sights higher—on surprising the world, making a statement, and showing that the Wolverines have a legitimate championship contender on their hands.
The Impact of Grady’s Arrival on Michigan’s Roster
Grady’s arrival at Michigan is part of a broader strategy by Coach Dusty May to build a deeper, more balanced team capable of competing at the highest level. The additions of the four transfers, along with key returning players, are meant to provide a mix of experience, athleticism, and leadership. Grady, with his skill set, adds a dynamic layer to the roster, giving Michigan more flexibility and depth in the forward spots.
While much of the focus has been on the veteran transfers, Grady’s development could be just as important for Michigan’s long-term success. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively will give May more options when it comes to adjusting lineups throughout the season. Whether he’s contributing as a stretch four, defending against opposing forwards, or providing a spark off the bench, Grady’s versatility will allow him to impact games in multiple ways.
The fact that Grady is so willing to embrace a leadership role, as indicated by his social media message, is another crucial aspect of his potential value to the team. As one of the younger players on the roster, Grady will have the opportunity to learn from experienced players and coaches while also helping to mentor and lead the incoming freshmen and other young talents. His leadership qualities will only enhance his role on the team, making him a key piece in Michigan’s quest for a championship.
Looking Ahead: The 2025-2026 Season
As the Michigan Wolverines gear up for the 2025-2026 season, there is no shortage of excitement surrounding the team. With a mix of established talent, impactful transfers, and high-potential recruits like Winters Grady, Michigan has the pieces in place to compete at a national level. The team will need time to gel, develop chemistry, and fine-tune its system under May’s guidance, but the foundation is strong.
Grady’s bold statement—Gonna shock everyone
2—sets the tone for what could be an electrifying season. If his confidence is any indication, the Wolverines are ready to embrace the challenges ahead and surprise a lot of people along the way.
As Michigan fans look forward to the 2025-2026 season, they’ll be watching closely to see how Grady’s game evolves and how his presence helps propel the Wolverines to new heights. With players like Grady leading the charge, Michigan could very well find itself back in the conversation as one of the top teams in college basketball, with the potential to shock everyone on its path to a championship.