One of Michigan's iconic Fab Five freshman will make his return as Juwan Howard is expected to be hired as the school's head basketball coach.
On Monday, it was announced that Howard would sit down for an interview with Michigan's athletic director Warde Manuel for the gig. At the time, Howard was competing against Providence head coach Ed Cooley who talked with Manuel on Monday. It appears that Manuel was more impressed by the former Michigan standout as sources close to the situation believe Howard will be the school's next play-caller.
Howard will fill the vacancy left by John Beilein who parted ways with the Wolverines to coach the Cleveland Cavaliers. Before making the transition to the NBA, Beilein coached Michigan for over ten years leading the Wolverines to two NCAA championship games. Yet, Beilein's impressive tenure will not overshadow Howard's experience.
Like Beilein, Howard also made two NCAA championship appearances as a player on the school's legendary Fab Five teams. After his junior year, Howard began his 19-year NBA career. During his time in the league, he received All-Rookie honors, All-NBA honors, and played in the 1996 All-Star game.
After retiring as a player, Juwan served as the Heat's assistant coach from 2013 until his new position at Michigan. As a coach, he helped Eric Spoelstra lead the Miami Big Three teams to two NBA Championships. This proven resume as both a player and a coach gives the allusion that Howard is prepared to fill Beilein's shoes.
