Juwan Howard is working his recruiting magic once again.

With the No. 2-ranked recruiting class for 2021 in tow, he’s already moving Michigan up the rankings for 2022. So far, the Wolverines have two 4-star commits from the Class of 2022 — and they’re “in the mix” for at least one top prospect.

ESPN’s Jeff Borzello lists Michigan as one of 7 teams interested in No. 2 prospect Dereck Lively, a 5-star center out of Pennsylvania. The Wolverines are up against conference rival Penn State, as well as big names Duke, Florida State, North Carolina, Kentucky and USC.

Michigan was also in on 5-star point guard Jaden Bradley and even hosted him for a visit, but are no longer on his list. Still, it’s a good sign that Howard has the Wolverines in the conversation for these top recruits.

The Wolverines currently have two commitments in the class of 2022. The class ranks No. 14 nationally and No. 3 in the Big Ten, per 274Sports Composite rankings.

Michigan has one scholarship spot remaining for the Class of 2022, according to VerbalCommits.