Juwan Howard on Michigan gig: ‘This is a dream job for me’

Juwan Howard has found success with the Michigan Wolverines faster than anyone, potentially even himself, could have imagined. That seems to have sped up talk of the idea that his time in Ann Arbor could be limited if the NBA comes calling. It is something the fanbase has learned to deal with on the football side of things, as we wrote earlier this week.

Howard was on with friend and former teammate Jalen Rose on the “Jalen and Jacoby” show this week to address his standing with the program.

“I’m in Ann Arbor to stay, baby,” he said. “I love Michigan, I love my job and I’m enjoying it and this experience. I’m also looking forward to growing each and every year and developing these young men to become the best versions of themselves as a student-athlete.

“This is a dream job for me. I think my passion last year showed how much I appreciate being in this position.

“The NBA, it’s a beautiful game. They have great coaches there, amazing, talented players, a beautiful brand. But I enjoyed that experience for 25 years, 19 as a player and six as a coach. I’m going to stay and keep growing with Michigan. Go Blue.”

Howard has a 39-16 record in two years at Michigan and led the team to a regular season Big Ten title and No. 1 season this season, which is earning him coach of the year honors across the country. The Wolverines open NCAA Tournament play on Saturday in a 1 vs. 16 showdown against Texas Southern in the Round of 64. Tipoff for that game is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET on CBS.