Michigan’s Season Ends, but Key Players Commit to 2025-26 Roster
The Michigan Wolverines’ 2024-25 season officially came to a close in Atlanta, falling 78-65 to No. 1 overall seed Auburn in the Sweet 16. With the loss, attention immediately shifted to the offseason—who stays, who leaves, and who arrives via the transfer portal.
Roster Shakeup Begins
One departure is already confirmed: freshman guard Justin Pippen is leaving Michigan. However, head coach Dusty May and his staff are wasting no time, working to retain key contributors while also seeking talent in the transfer portal.
The good news? Two crucial role players, guard Roddy Gayle Jr. and forward Will Tschetter, have committed to returning next season.
“Absolutely I plan on (coming back),” Gayle told reporters after the game.
“100 percent I’m coming back,” Tschetter confirmed.
The Impact of Their Return
Their immediate pledges reflect a strong belief in Coach May’s vision. Tschetter, a veteran from the Juwan Howard era, transitioned into a key bench piece this season, backing up Danny Wolf at the 4-spot and playing small-ball center. He averaged 6.4 points per game, shooting 47.7% from the field and 35.1% from three.
Gayle, who transferred from Ohio State, had a rollercoaster season. After starting early, he was benched in February in favor of Rubin Jones. Despite that setback, he finished strong, averaging 9.8 points, 3.4 assists, and 2.2 rebounds, while shooting 43.1% from the field. His three-point shooting (23.2%) was a career low, but he bounced back in the Big Ten Tournament, scoring 11 points vs. Purdue and nine vs. Maryland.
His best moment? A 26-point explosion in the Round of 32 against Texas A&M, where he shot 7-of-14 from the field and 4-of-6 from deep.
As Danny Wolf put it after that performance: “Roddy got his mojo back.”
Looking Ahead
Both Gayle and Tschetter have one year of eligibility left, and their return gives Michigan stability as Coach May looks to reload through the transfer portal.
🔥 Will Michigan make a deeper run next year? Stay updated with our transfer portal tracker!
