I recently spoke with new Michigan Wolverines coach Juwan Howard and I could hear the excitement in his voice. He was thrilled to be returning to Ann Arbor. The new coach brings a lot of enthusiasm and energy. Just look at his tears of joy during his introductory press conference.
Fans of the Maize and Blue should be excited to have Howard as the new coach. He has the support of the Fab Five -- Jalen Rose was among the vocal supporters of Howard's consideration for the role -- and offers a reminder of the glory days of the early 90s.
It helps to have a coach who played in parts of 19 NBA seasons, averaging over 13 points in over 1200 career games in the pros.
Howard will have the opportunity to build on the great success of John Beilein. Many were surprised when Beilein left Ann Arbor for the head coaching job with the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers, though I was not. Beilein told me last year he wanted a new challenge, since he had coached at multiple collegiate levels and in high school.
I've heard some critics question the hire of Howard, comparing him to Chris Mullin at St. John's and Clyde Drexler at Houston. There is a big difference, as Howard has served as an apprentice under Erik Spoelstra and Pat Riley with the Miami Heat. He has gained the respect of so many pros, including Dwyane Wade and LeBron James -- learning on the job as an assistant will prepare him for the new role.
Howard brings a 180-degree different approach from Beilein. An incredible motivator and teacher, Beilein would take a three-star player and make him into a five-star performer. His ability to convey his concepts to improve his teams was impressive. He developed a team that challenged for the national championship. The players got better and better.
I see Howard learning in an ongoing process. There is a difference in being a second lieutenant versus a head coaching role. There are adjustments, learning the rules of recruiting and the differences in coaching in the college game. There's also a difference when you are making decisions as the boss.
I've heard Rose discuss his belief that Howard will help attract more stars into Michigan. I totally agree with that theory. Howard knows lot of people who can make a difference in recruiting. You will see more McDonald's All-Americans in Ann Arbor. His contacts will help in that area.
Another move that will help is Howard bringing former St. Joseph's coach Phil Martelli to his staff. Martelli will help Howard learn the ropes of the college game after spending 24 years on the Hawk sideline.
Though Michigan will miss Beilein, who did an incredible job for 12 years with the Wolverines, the Juwan Howard era will surely be an exciting time in Ann Arbor.