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Michigan basketball recruit from Denmark diagnosed with cancer

Michigan was ‘disrespecting the game’ with first half effort: Dusty May

Michigan basketball coach Dusty May speaks after the Wolverines beat Oregon at Matthew Knight Arena in Eugene, Oregon, on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026.

Michigan basketball signee Marcus Moeller has temporarily stepped away from the game after being diagnosed with testicular cancer, his club and the Wolverines announced on social media.

Moeller currently plays for Unicaja Baloncesto de Málaga in Málaga, Spain. The 7-foot-3 center is originally from Denmark, where he has returned to be with his family.

“In recent days, our Unicaja Alhaurín de la Torre U-League player, Marcus Moller, has had to face a medical situation that requires him to temporarily suspend his athletic activities,” a translation of the club’s post reads. “Following medical tests, he has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.

“The young Dane is currently in his home country, where he is receiving medical treatment, accompanied by his family. From the club, we send him all our support so that he can focus all his efforts on his recovery.”

Moeller was an off-the-radar international recruit for Michigan, but Dusty May has long had an affinity for European players, particularly at the center position. Last year, it was Russian Vladislav Goldin (7 feet 1) and currently its Spain’s Aday Mara (7-3). Moeller figured to be the next in this mold, though currently all the focus is on his health over basketball.

“We want Marcus to know that he will not face this alone, as so many people are thinking of him and sending him strength every single day,” Michigan basketball’s statement read. “While he focuses on his health and recovery, we truly look forward to having Marcus with us in Ann Arbor this summer and are beyond excited for his future as a Wolverine.”

Michigan has the No. 14 class of 2026 in the nation, according to 247Sports composite rankings, which also includes four-star forward Quinn Costello, four-star guard Joseph Hartman and three-star wing Malachi Brown.

Testicular cancer is seen as one of the most treatable forms of the disease, with a 99% five-year survival rate for those with localized disease, according to cancer research UK. The earlier it’s caught, the better. The stage of Moeller’s disease is unclear at this time.

“We are confident that he will face this challenge with the courage and determination that have always characterized him,” his clubs statement concluded. “We appreciate your respect and understanding during this delicate time for our player. We are with you, Marcus.”

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

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