Elliot Cadeau, a highly regarded five-star point guard, has announced his transfer from the University of North Carolina (UNC) to the University of Michigan, choosing the Wolverines over offers from UNC and Tennessee. This significant acquisition underscores the recruiting prowess of Michigan’s head coach, Dusty May, and signals a promising future for the Wolverines’ basketball program.
**Elliot Cadeau’s Collegiate Journey**
Cadeau began his college basketball career at UNC in 2023. As a freshman, he averaged 7.3 points and 4.1 assists per game, showcasing his potential as a dynamic playmaker. His sophomore season saw an uptick in performance, with averages of 9.4 points and 6.2 assists per game, ranking him second in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) for assists. Notably, on January 21, 2025, Cadeau recorded a career-high 13 assists against Wake Forest. Over two seasons, he started 68 games for the Tar Heels before entering the NCAA transfer portal
**Decision to Join Michigan**
Cadeau’s decision to transfer to Michigan reflects his confidence in Coach Dusty May’s vision and the program’s direction. May, who took over the Wolverines in March 2024 after a successful tenure at Florida Atlantic University, has been instrumental in revitalizing Michigan’s recruiting efforts. His commitment to an up-tempo, positionless style of play has attracted top talent, including Cadeau. This approach emphasizes versatility and fast-paced offense, aligning well with Cadeau’s skill set.
**Impact on Michigan’s Roster**
The addition of Cadeau is part of a broader strategy by Coach May to bolster Michigan’s roster through both high school recruiting and the transfer portal. In the 2025 recruiting cycle, the Wolverines secured commitments from five-star guard Trey McKenney and four-star forward Winters Grady, positioning them with the fifth-highest ranked class nationally. Furthermore, May has successfully attracted key transfers, including Roddy Gayle Jr. from Ohio State and Sam Walters from Alabama, enhancing the team’s depth and experience.
**Looking Ahead**
Cadeau’s arrival is expected to have an immediate impact on the Wolverines’ performance in the highly competitive Big Ten Conference. His playmaking abilities and experience will be invaluable assets as Michigan aims to reestablish itself as a national contender. Coach May’s proactive approach in the transfer portal and recruiting trail demonstrates a clear commitment to elevating the program’s stature. The combination of seasoned transfers and talented recruits like Cadeau sets a solid foundation for Michigan’s pursuit of success in the upcoming seasons.
