Orlando Magic Eye Michigan’s Dusty May After Jamahl Mosley Firing: NBA Coaching Rumors Heat Up

The Orlando Magic have parted ways with head coach Jamahl Mosley just days after a devastating collapse in the NBA Playoffs. Now, the team is reportedly eyeing a high-profile college coach to lead the franchise: Dusty May of the Michigan Wolverines.

Magic Fire Mosley After Historic Playoff Collapse

Hours after losing in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, the Orlando Magic made a swift change at the top. Despite holding a 3-1 series lead over the No. 1-seeded Detroit Pistons, the Magic suffered one of the most lopsided collapses in NBA history. After leading by 24 points early in Game 6, Orlando was outscored 55-17 over the final 23 minutes, including a 31-8 deficit in the fourth quarter. The Pistons completed the comeback with a 116-94 victory on Sunday, sealing the series.

Dusty May Emerges as Potential Magic Replacement

With the coaching vacancy now open, early reports indicate the Magic are strongly considering Dusty May as Mosley’s successor. According to Marc Stein, a longtime NBA insider, league sources confirm that Orlando has a “level of interest” in May if he becomes available.

“League sources say that the Magic are admirers of Michigan’s Dusty May and would have a level of interest if he were indeed available.” — Marc Stein

Major Hurdles Stand in the Way of May’s NBA Move

While the Magic’s interest is clear, several obstacles could prevent May from making the jump to the NBA:

• Michigan’s National Championship Run: May just led the Wolverines to their first national title since 1989, capping an improbable March Madness run. The program’s recent success may make staying in college basketball more appealing.
• Potential Competition for May’s Services: The NBA coaching carousel is active, with openings in New Orleans, Portland, and Chicago. Additionally, the future of Steve Kerr in Golden State remains uncertain, adding another layer of competition.
• May’s Contract Status: Reports indicate May will not sign a contract extension at Michigan until July, leaving the door open for NBA interest—but also raising questions about his long-term plans.

Michigan’s Future in Flux After Title Run

May’s potential departure would come at a pivotal time for Michigan basketball. The Wolverines are expected to lose three projected top-20 picks in the 2026 NBA Draft: Yaxel Lendeborg, Aday Mara, and Morez Johnson. Only Johnson could return for another season. While Michigan has secured an impressive transfer portal haul, the team will undergo a major rebuild, making May’s role—and his decision—even more complex.

May’s leadership was instrumental in Michigan’s championship run, but the NBA’s allure remains strong. If the Magic cannot land him, former Bulls coach Billy Donovan is also expected to draw interest as a potential replacement.

What’s Next for the Magic?

The Magic now face a critical decision in their coaching search. With a roster in transition and high expectations for the future, Orlando will need to act quickly to secure a leader who can rebuild the franchise. Whether Dusty May ultimately makes the leap to the NBA—or stays in college basketball—remains one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason.