Michigan Terminates Juwan Howard’s Contract After Disappointing Season

Michigan University has made the decision to relieve men’s basketball coach Juwan Howard of his duties after a challenging season, following a comprehensive program evaluation. Howard, a prominent member of the famed Fab Five, led the Wolverines to two NCAA Tournaments during his five-year tenure.

Warde Manuel, the athletic director at Michigan, expressed gratitude for Howard’s contributions but emphasized that the program did not meet their performance expectations. The decision comes on the heels of Michigan’s 8-24 season, where they finished at the bottom of the Big Ten.

This drastic downturn contrasts sharply with Howard’s second season, where Michigan secured a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament and reached the Elite Eight. However, over the past two seasons, Michigan struggled significantly, posting a combined record of 26-40.

During the 2022 season, Howard was involved in a high-profile incident, leading to a five-game suspension following a physical altercation with a rival’s staff member. There were calls for his dismissal at that time.

Amid further controversy surrounding Howard, including an incident with a former strength and conditioning coach, Jon Sanderson, Michigan University undertook a review that ultimately resulted in Sanderson’s departure. Subsequently, Howard’s job status came under scrutiny.

The timing of Howard’s termination has taken many by surprise, as it was not anticipated before the weekend. Manuel had publicly supported Howard earlier in the season. A recent review intended to assess the program’s culture contributed to the ultimate decision to part ways with Howard.

The exit of Howard leaves a prestigious coaching vacancy at Michigan. Several high-profile names in college basketball coaching are likely to be considered for the position, such as Nate Oats of Alabama, Darian DeVries from Drake, and Dusty May from FAU, among others.

With the termination of Juwan Howard, Michigan is now in search of a new head coach to lead their men’s basketball program through the challenges ahead.