February 24, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines guard LJ Cason (2) grabs a late rebound during the game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Chrysler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Image Michigan sophomore guard LJ Cason will miss the remainder of the season after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee during Friday’s win over Illinois.
The school announced the severity of the injury on Saturday. Cason averaged 8.4 points, 2.4 assists and shot 50.3% from the field in 28 games off the bench for the Wolverines.
“I don’t want to end the season like this, but I will approach my rehab the same way I approach everything, with focus and determination, trusting in God’s plan,” Cason said in a press release. “We have many goals as a team and I am committed to supporting my brothers every step of the way.”
Wolverines coach Dusty May expressed regret over the team’s poor performance with two games left in the regular season.
May said, “More than anything, my heart breaks for LJ.” “You don’t want to see something like this happen to a young man who has put so much effort into this program, but if there’s anyone equipped to handle this and the rehabilitation process, it’s LJ. He’s resilient, disciplined and has an amazing support system around him.”
Cason scored nine points in 13 minutes as the Wolverines beat host Illinois 84-70. With the win, Michigan clinched the Big Ten regular season title.
Cason, a native of Lakeland, Florida, initially committed to play for Florida Atlantic out of high school. But when May left school to become coach at Michigan, Cason requested his release and followed May to Michigan.
Michigan (27-2, 17-1 Big Ten) plays at Iowa on Thursday before taking on Michigan State in the regular-season finale.
–Field level media
