One of Hawaii’s top college football prospects made his future plans official on Friday, as Kamehameha offensive lineman Malakai Lee, a four-star recruit in the class of 2026 according to 247 Sports, announced his commitment to the University of Michigan.
Lee, the reigning Cover2 Olin Kreutz Award winner as the state’s top lineman, chose the Wolverines over other powerhouse programs Alabama, Georgia and Texas.
KHON2 Sports was on campus as the 6-foot-7, 325-pound standout made his decision public.
“Michigan just has a great history of offensive linemen. They have a great history of producing players, and they’re the winningest team in history,” Lee said. “All those elements combined, it was an easy choice for me. Their offensive line coach is great, their head coach is an offensive lineman. So for someone like me, it’s a great school to go to.”
Lee expressed gratitude to all the programs that recruited him.
“I’m just grateful for all those teams. They’ve all been great to me and my family, and they all play great football,” he said. “But I just love Michigan, and I’m grateful I’m able to go there.”
The Kamehameha senior-to-be reflected on the journey that brought him to this moment.
“Ever since I was younger, playing 12U, my first time ever playing football, I could see myself in this moment. I worked for it every day, I worked hard, and it’s great that I’m here,” Lee said. “This is only the next step forward. The job’s not finished yet, but I’m looking forward to the next chapter in my life at Michigan.”
Lee, who is already committed to play in the 2026 Polynesian Bowl, will begin his senior season with the Warriors in August.