The University of Michigan decided to make a change to its men’s basketball program on Friday, announcing the departure of head coach Juwan Howard after five seasons. In a statement, athletic director Warde Manual acknowledged Howard’s significant contributions to the program, describing him as “among the greatest Wolverines to ever be associated with our basketball program.”
However, Manual also noted that the team had not met expectations and was not progressing in the desired direction. Following the announcement, Howard issued a statement on Sunday expressing gratitude to the university and various individuals, including Manual.
He highlighted the program’s achievements during his tenure while expressing appreciation for his family, the Wolverines players, and the staff, especially amidst health challenges encountered during the 2023-24 season.
Howard, who additionally competed for three seasons at Michigan from 1991-92 to 1993-94, unequivocally considers himself a “Michigan man forever,” as he stated.
He assumed the role of head coach for the program prior to the 2019-20 season, guiding them to a 19-12 record. Howard’s most successful season occurred in 2020-21, during which the team achieved a remarkable 23–5 record and reached a high ranking of No. 2 in the nation.
That year, Michigan clinched the regular-season championship and advanced to the NCAA tournament, ultimately falling to UCLA in the Elite Eight. Under Howard’s leadership, Michigan secured berths in the tournament twice, also qualifying in 2022, where they were eliminated in the Sweet 16 after a 63–55 defeat to Villanova. Across his tenure, Howard coached a total of 159 games at Michigan, concluding with a record of 87–72.
