LATEST: Following the announcement of Sherrone Moore as the new head football coach, Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel harshly criticized coach Juwan Howard’s dismissal.

The athletic director of Michigan has stated that he would like to offer assistance rather than fire coach Juwan Howard.

Warde Manuel, the athletic director of Michigan, showed patience with the men’s basketball team after Sherrone Moore was introduced as the new head coach last month. The squad had lost seven of its previous eight games. Manuel stated during a video conference call on Wednesday that nothing has changed at the Crisler Center. Under Juwan Howard’s leadership, the team has since finished 1-5, suffered significant losses in its last two games, and now has an 8-17 record—tied for the lowest through 25 games in 43 seasons.

Manuel emphasized his personal strategy of not making decisions throughout the season, even in face of the continued difficulties. He underlined that it would be unexpected for Ohio State’s Chris Holtmann to make a public announcement in the middle of the season. As the season comes to an end, Manuel hinted that he hasn’t decided how to go with the show yet.

Manuel explained, saying, “It’s fair to say that, as of right now, I haven’t really given much attention to changing our men’s basketball program. You know this kind of thing, so I guess there’s not much more I can say. I haven’t given any adjustments any attention at this time because I just want to see Juwan succeed. I stand by him, our staff, and our student athletes.

In his fifth year as head coach, Juwan Howard has witnessed the program’s direction change for the worst. Although the initial year was promising, there were setbacks in the next years, such as the 2021–22 season’s lackluster performance and the COVID-19 pandemic-related NCAA tournament miss. With Michigan having lost in the Big Ten (24-29) and overall (45-48) the last three seasons, this one is turning out to be the most turbulent yet.

Manuel stated that he continues to support Howard and confirmed that he had spoken with him regarding the program’s status. He pointed out that although the players and coaches are giving it their all, there has occasionally been a lack of execution, and changes are required. Manuel acknowledged that there are great expectations but reiterated his commitment to supporting Howard and the program despite the current challenges.

After being 3-0 at the beginning of the season, the Michigan squad has suffered, finishing 5-17. The team has been losing by double digits lately, and its top scorer, Dug McDaniel, has been out of the lineup for away games since the second semester, making the roster even more depleted.

After undergoing heart surgery during the summer, Howard conveyed his appreciation for the chance to be a coach and his pleasure in collaborating with the players and staff. When the team visits Michigan State on Saturday, it will be up against a formidable opponent.

Manuel stressed the need for constant support and communication with Howard and the team in his conclusion, saying that it is his duty to look past the present challenges and decide what is best for the program.