Michigan Coaching Rumors: Wolverines Tab Juwan Howard to Fill Vacancy
Miami Heat assistant Juwan Howard has agreed to a five-year deal to become the next head basketball coach at Michigan, according to Stadium's Jeff Goodman.
SI Now contributor Jon Rothstein previously reported that Michigan offered the position to Howard and began contract negotiations. According to Rothstein, a press conference can be expected either late this week or early next week.
Howard was rumored to be a top candidate to replace the Wolverines former head coach John Beilein, who was hired by the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 13. ESPN's Jay Williams publicly called for Howard to be considered for the vacancy at his alma mater after Beilein's departure. Providence's Ed Cooley was also rumored to be in the running but Cooley pulled his name from consideration Tuesday when he signed a multi-year extension with the Friars.
Howard most recently served as an assistant for the Miami Heat from 2013–2019. He joined Miami's coaching staff after retiring in 2013 on the heels of his second consecutive NBA Championship with the Heat.
Two of Howard's former Miami teammates, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, tweeted their approval of Michigan's decision to hire Howard after reports first surfaced Tuesday.
Howard's wife, Jenine, tweeted, "Go BLUE," on Wednesday morning, leading many to believe that the deal will get done.
