Michigan Guard L.J. Cason Moves to Miami

Cason’s Path from Lakeland to the Transfer Portal

L.J. Cason, a Lakeland product of Victory Christian Academy, has decided to transfer to Miami for the second straight offseason. The rising junior originally pledged to coach Dusty May at Florida Atlantic before May accepted the head‑coaching job at Michigan in April 2024. Cason then flipped his commitment to the Wolverines.

When May left Michigan in June to take over the Dallas Mavericks, Cason was the only one of the 14 scholarship players from the 2024 recruiting class to enter the portal. Coach Mike Boynton Jr. recounted Cason’s departure on the “Defend The Block” podcast, calling him a champion who “gave this program a lot.” Boynton added that despite being disappointed he won’t coach him further, he respects the player’s choice and wishes him success.

Cason, who previously played for a Lakeland high school team, posted solid numbers for the Wolverines. He averaged 8.4 points and 2.4 assists per game last season, but his breakout came in February when he posted a 11.8‑point average, scoring double figures in four of five contests.

Injury, Recovery, and Statistical Highlights

The season’s momentum was halted on the road at Illinois, where Cason suffered a torn ACL. In that game he had nine points in just 13 minutes before the injury. Over the five February games he scored at least ten points each, showing the potential that has drawn attention.

Despite the setback, expectations are that Cason will be ready to contribute in the second half of the 2026‑27 season. Because the NCAA adopted the “five‑in‑five” rule, eliminating medical redshirts, there is no need to hold him back once he is medically cleared. Cason’s post‑injury performance could also factor into the backcourt mix at Miami.

His role in Ann Arbor would have been uncertain anyway; the Wolverines return senior Elliot Cadeau and two projected first‑round prospects, Trey McKenney and Brandon McCoy Jr. Michigan now carries 13 scholarship players and is actively scouting another backcourt addition.

Miami Reaches Out

Miami signed Cason, giving the Hurricanes another playmaker for the upcoming campaign. The transfer adds experience and a scoring presence to a roster looking to improve after a recent rebuilding phase. Although his exact position at Miami remains to be seen, the move signals confidence from the program’s coaching staff.

The deadline for portal moves has passed, and Cason’s commitment solidifies Miami’s backcourt depth. Fans can look forward to seeing how he integrates with the existing talent and how his presence influences the team’s trajectory in the 2026‑27 season.

Tony Garcia is the Wolverines beat writer for the Detroit Free Press. Email him at [email protected] and follow him on X at @RealTonyGarcia.