Michigan just landed a major piece for its future frontcourt, as five-star forward Lincoln Cosby announced his commitment to the Wolverines on Tuesday via social media. And this isn’t just your typical top recruit-we’re talking about one of the premier talents in the 2027 class who’s now planning to reclassify and hit the college hardwood a year earlier.
At 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, Cosby brings size, versatility, and a skill set that fits the modern game. He’s ranked as the No. 4 forward in the 2027 class, and his decision to reclassify adds even more intrigue to his college trajectory. Cosby had no shortage of suitors, choosing Michigan over Alabama, Arizona State, Cincinnati, and Georgia.
So why Michigan? According to Cosby, it came down to fit-and head coach Dusty May’s vision for how to use a player like him.
“When I watched Michigan and spoke to coach Dusty May, I saw how they utilized their big, skilled forwards, like Danny Wolf or Yaxel Lendeborg,” Cosby said in an interview. “I felt like I saw myself playing and producing in that type of system.”
That’s a telling quote. Cosby isn’t just chasing a brand name-he’s looking for a scheme that highlights his strengths.
And if you’ve seen him play, you know what those are. He’s a true three-level scorer who can stretch the floor, attack off the bounce, and finish around the rim.
But it’s not just offense-his length and mobility give him serious upside on the defensive end as well. With that 7-foot-2 wingspan, he’s got the tools to guard multiple positions and alter shots in the paint.
Cosby joins a Michigan recruiting class that’s quietly building something special. Four-star prospects Quinn Costello and Joseph Hartman are already on board, and with Cosby in the mix, this group suddenly has the kind of talent that can make waves in the Big Ten sooner rather than later.
For Dusty May, this is a statement pickup. Michigan is showing it can win big-time recruiting battles and attract players who fit the system-and want to be developed. Cosby’s commitment is more than just a headline-it’s a sign that the Wolverines are positioning themselves for sustained success with a modern, forward-thinking approach to roster building.