Michigan Wolverines legend Juwan Howard was recently relieved of his duties as head coach after struggling this season en route to a disappointing 8-24 record on the year. And on Sunday, he issued a classy statement about what his time as head coach has meant to him.
Howard served as head coach of the Wolverines for five seasons, struggling with consistency throughout much of his tenure.
Howard’s tenure at Michigan wasn’t all bad by any means, as he did experience success in the 2020-21 season and the 2021-22 season with NCAA Tournament appearances.
However, the team’s struggles over the last two seasons ended up being the final nail in the coffin for Howard. And despite the struggles, he appears to look back on his tenure with the team quite fondly.
In a statement released on Michigan’s Twitter/X account, Howard thanked the Michigan fans for their loyal support throughout his time with the team.
“I want to thank the University, Board Regents and AD Warde Manuel for the privilege of coaching Michigan, my university for these past five years. During my tenure as head coach, we shared memorable seasons and achievements, including a Big Ten championship, back to back Sweet Sixteen appearances and being within one game of a Final Four. I was honored to be named AP National Coach of the Year and Big Ten Coach of the Year in 2021.
“My devotion and dedication to this program and most importantly, to my players and their families, provided a challenge that I welcomed and embraced, which required me to grow and expand my capabilities both personally and professionally. My health challenges during this past season tested my resolve. but true to the form of a Michigan man, I stood and faced them, with the support of my family, players and staff.
“I want to give a special shoutout to all the players I coached. You guys were and will always be my everything! Michigan will always be a significant part of my legacy and I will be a significant part of theirs. Go Blue!”
Thank you, Coach Howard 💙💛 pic.twitter.com/POingwtrJD
— Michigan Men's Basketball (@umichbball) March 17, 2024
It’s an incredibly mature way for Howard to take this news of his dismissal. And ultimately, he is indeed a legend that most Michigan fans will always love, even if this most recent tenure didn’t exactly go to plan.
About Reice Shipley
Reice Shipley is a staff writer for Comeback Media that graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Sports Media. He previously worked at Barrett Sports Media and is a fan of all things Syracuse sports.