Michigan Announces Update on Coach Juwan Howard Following Heart Surgery

The fourth-year coach and former Wolverines star underwent successful surgery on Friday, the school announced.

The Michigan men’s basketball team shared an encouraging update on the health of coach Juwan Howard as he begins recovering from a heart procedure he underwent on Friday in Ann Arbor.

The program announced Howard, 50, underwent surgery at the University of Michigan Health Samuel and Jean Frankel Cardiovascular Center to remove an aortic aneurysm and repair his aortic valve. The scheduled operation, performed by Dr. Himanshu Patel, was required after a recent routine medical check uncovered Howard’s underlying conditions.

Michigan’s statement also included a comment from Howard thanking Patel and the medical staff and addressing his return. According to the school, Howard is expected to “fully recover in six to 12 weeks and could return to the program in four to six weeks.” 

Michigan men’s basketball coach Juwan Howard leaves the court after a game against Purdue :: Junfu Han/USA TODAY Network

“I feel so grateful and blessed that this surgery was performed at University of Michigan Health,” Howard said. “My wife, Jenine, and our family appreciate the world-class care that has been provided to us. Dr. [Kim] Eagle, Dr. Patel, Dr. [Stanley] Chetcuti, and all of the staff at the Frankel Cardiovascular Center are so talented and performed like champions throughout this process. 

“I am going to work very hard in my rehabilitation to be stronger than ever by the time our upcoming season is upon us.”

With Howard recovering, associate head coach Phil Martelli will serve as Michigan’s interim head coach, while assistants Howard Eisley and Saddi Washington will maintain their current roles. Jay Smith, the team’s Director of player personnel and development, is expected to be elevated into a short-term role as the third assistant.

A former UM star who played 20 NBA seasons, Howard will look to build on his 79–48 career coaching record with another successful Wolverines season in Year 5. Michigan will open the 2023–24 campaign on Nov. 3 with a home game against Northwood.