FAIRFAX, Va. – George Mason University men's basketball head coach Tony Skinn ('06) has announced that former Appalachian State forward Michael Marcus Jr. will join the Green & Gold beginning in 2026-27.
 
The 6-foot-9-inch, 255-pound product of Indian Trail, N.C., suited up for Appalachian State over the past two seasons and started 25 games a s a sophomore.
 
"Michael is a big body," head coach Tony Skinn ('06) said. "The size and the girth that he has will be extremely valuable over the course of the season. He has the ability to play the four and the five positions, and that versatility is important within our program identity. As we look to replace Riley this season, Michael's ability to make 3s from his position and his overall skill set in the frontcourt will make a significant impact."
 
Marcus Jr. averaged a career-best 7.8 points in 2025-26 while ranking t-2^nd on the team with 6.0 rebounds/contest. He shot 47.1 percent from the floor in 24.1 minutes/game. He also notched four double-doubles, including two games with 20+ points/10+ rebounds. He posted at least 10 points in 11 games and made 30 triples on the year while shooting it at 33.3 percent from beyond the arc.
 
In two seasons in Boone, Marcus Jr. saw action in 63 games and scored 323 points.
 
As a freshman, he was one of three Mountaineers to finish with a +80 plus/minus or better in 2024-25. 
 
Marcus Jr. scored 856 points during his prep career, and averaged 14.3 points during his final campaign at Covenant Day in 2023-24. He led his team to a runner up finish at the 4A state championship in 2022-23 and won a EYBL 15U Championship during his AAU career on the Nike Circuit.
 
Marcus Jr. joins Baraka Okojie (Brampton, Ontario/Mercer), Emmett Adair (Sydney, Australia/Loyola (Md.)), Efeosa Oliogu-Elabor (Markham, Ontario/Butler) and Lilian Marville (Orleans, France) in George Mason's talented transfer class. They will suit up alongside a group of Patriot returners which includes 2025-26 Preseason All-A-10 First Team selection Brayden O'Connor, Emmanuel Kanga, Malik Presley and Ryan-Preston Mendy.

Secure Your Seats for the 2026-27 Campaign!
Season ticket renewals are live for the 2026-27 and run through June 16. Tickets and seat fees can be paid via George Mason Account Manager and can be purchased in full or through an extended payment plan option. Season ticket holders who renew by May 19 will be entered to win an exclusive gameday behind-the-scenes experience with the team. Fans interested in new season tickets can place a deposit here.