Michael Ajayi, who helped Gonzaga to a West Coast Conference Tournament title and an NCAA Tournament berth in his only season in Spokane, will join the Butler Basketball program for his final season of eligibility.
 
Ajayi, a 6-7 wing from Kent, Wash., has signed an athletic aid agreement for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
 
"These past two seasons have showcased Michael's all-around game and potential," said Butler coach Thad Matta. "Michael led the WCC in scoring during his season at Pepperdine, and contributed to a high level of winning with a physical, defensive presence last season at Gonzaga. His impact on both ends of the court is a major addition to our roster for the upcoming season. Michael is a high-character individual who is going to be a great fit at Butler."
 
Ajayi helped Gonzaga to a 26-9 record during the 2024-25 campaign, including a 14-4 mark in the WCC. After winning the WCC Tournament, Gonzaga advanced to the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Ajayi averaged 6.5 points and 5.4 rebounds per game for the Zags; his rebounding average was second on the team.
 
Ajayi arrived at Gonzaga after spending the 2023-24 season at Pepperdine, where he led the West Coast Conference in scoring at 17.1 points per game. He was second in the WCC, grabbing 9.9 rebounds per outing. He made 47 percent of his attempts from three-point range. Ajayi earned first team All-West Coast Conference honors following his season at Pepperdine.
 
Ajayi spent two years at Pierce Community College, where he was named the 2022 Northwest Athletic Conference West Region's Most Valuable Player and the West Region's Freshman of the Year after putting up 20.4 points and 11.3 rebounds per game.
 
Ajayi is the third transfer addition who has been announced for the Bulldogs' 2025-26 roster, joining Horizon League leading scorer Jalen Jackson from Purdue Fort Wayne as well as Yame Butler of Drexel.
 
Additional updates on both Butler's 2025-26 roster and the team's non-conference schedule will be announced soon.
 
Season tickets for the upcoming 2025-26 basketball season are on sale now. Fans can email tickets@butler.edu or call the ticket office at 317-940-3647 for more information.