The Michigan Men’s Basketball program is currently in a state of flux as an alleged confrontation between head coach Juwan Howard and longtime strength and conditioning coach Jon Sanderson is under investigation by the University of Michigan’s human resources department.
According to sources familiar with the situation, Sanderson filed a claim with HR after a heated dispute with Howard on December 7. The incident reportedly stemmed from a disagreement between an athletic trainer and senior guard Jace Howard, Juwan’s son, regarding Jace’s injury status. Sanderson became involved, and a verbal altercation ensued between him and Juwan Howard. There were no physical altercations, but the situation became heated enough to require intervention.
As a result of the HR review, Howard’s employment at Michigan could be in jeopardy due to the university’s “zero-tolerance policy” put in place after a postgame skirmish at Wisconsin in February 2022. In that incident, Howard struck an opposing team’s assistant coach, leading to a suspension and a hefty fine.
The ongoing investigation has left the program in a state of uncertainty. Sanderson, a 15-year employee and well-respected figure within the program, has not appeared for work since the incident and did not accompany the team to Iowa for their game last Sunday.
The University of Michigan athletic director, Warde Manuel, is expected to make the final determination regarding any policy violations and potential disciplinary action.
Howard, who underwent heart surgery in September, is still transitioning back to a full coaching role after sitting out as an assistant coach. It remains to be seen whether he will serve as the head coach for Michigan’s upcoming game against Eastern Michigan.
The Wolverines are currently 5-5 for the season, with a 1-1 record in the Big Ten. The ongoing investigation and potential repercussions could have a significant impact on the coaching staff and the team’s performance moving forward.