In an unprecedented achievement for the University of Michigan, the 2024-25 academic year showcased the “Michigan difference” as all four major sports—football, basketball, hockey, and baseball—produced first-round draft picks in the same season. This remarkable feat marks the first time in NCAA history that a school has had first-round selections in these sports simultaneously.
The football season set the stage with defensive linemen Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant being picked early in the 2025 NFL Draft, where Graham was selected fifth by the Cleveland Browns and Grant was chosen 13th by the Miami Dolphins. This continued the Wolverines’ strong legacy, marking the fourth instance in five years with defensive players selected in the first round, and underscoring their ability to develop top talent, as both players made it onto the Free Press’ all-quarter century team.
Following football, the basketball program saw star Danny Wolf drafted 27th overall by the Brooklyn Nets, after an impressive season where he averaged 13.2 points and 9.7 rebounds. His success played a pivotal role in attracting new talent to Michigan, exemplified by the acquisition of top transfer Yaxel Lendeborg.
The momentum continued with Will Horcoff being picked 24th overall in the NHL Draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates, completing the trifecta of first-round picks for Michigan in major sports. Horcoff came from a distinguished hockey lineage and is expected to significantly contribute to his team’s future.
Capping off this historic season, baseball infielder Mitch Voit was selected 38th overall by the New York Mets, marking him as the highest-drafted U-M baseball player in 25 years. Voit’s stellar performance with leading offensive statistics highlighted his potential as a dual-threat athlete.
This collective success reflects the strength of Michigan’s athletic programs and their ability to nurture outstanding talent. With a combination of skill, hard work, and institutional support, the Wolverines continue to set a benchmark in collegiate athletics. Their recent achievements not only inspire current athletes but also enhance the university’s reputation as a premier destination for aspiring sports professionals.