Michigan Head Coach Juwan Howard is a name that is reportedly coming up as a possible NBA coaching candidate.
ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, citing sources, said Howard's name is "gaining traction" within NBA front offices.
ESPN Sources: A possible NBA coaching candidate whose name is gaining traction within front offices: Michigan coach Juwan Howard. Howard has an obviously strong resume as a player and later an assistant under Erik Spoelstra. He interviewed for Lakers, Cavs before taking UM job.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) August 24, 2020
Howard, who has coached one season with the Wolverines, was an assistant for the Miami Heat from 2013-2019. He also reportedly interviewed for head coaching jobs with the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers before taking the Michigan job.
During his first season as Michigan coach, he went 19-12 and was 10-10 in the Big Ten.
In a statement, Howard said he wasn't interested.
"There was a report of my name as a potential candidate for NBA coaching opportunities. While I am flattered, and know it will more than likely happen again, I am not exploring, seeking or listening. I am the head coach at the University of Michigan! I am blessed to be working at the greatest university in the world. I am blessed to be guiding a group of wonderful young men. We have goals, dreams & championships to win! This is where my focus is. GO BLUE!"