There’s no denying that the Michigan Basketball program isn’t in a good place at the moment. The Wolverines are firmly in last place in the conference at 7-14 overall, including a league worst 2-8 in conference play. While there are several areas of the program that are cause for concern, the overall sentiment by the fan base is that Howard’s time as head basketball coach needs to come to an end.
The criticism, however, is not just limited to members of the fan base. At least one prominent former player issued his thoughts publicly on the current state of the U-M basketball program via social media. Nik Stauskas, who is unquestionably one of the top players to come through Ann Arbor over the last two decades, didn’t hold back his thoughts after Michigan’s loss to Purdue back on Jan. 23.
“These kids have no respect or understanding of what it means to put on that block M,” wrote Stauskas. “Haven’t felt any kind of passion or love for the game from Michigan basketball in years.”
Earlier this week, former Fab Five member Jimmy King issued his own statement on the U-M basketball program. It’s hard to say whether or not his statement was directed at Stauskas in particular, but it sure appears that way.
“I’m old enough to remember when some former Michigan players criticized the football program and wanted Coach Harbaugh to leave the program. I watched the same people celebrate the Natty like they never uttered those words or displayed those sentiments. One thing I don’t play with is family. If you claim to be “family” but mention the state of the program and our coaches without discussing concerns face to face like real ones do in these situations to get a true pulse on the program, then you’re comments are egregious and littered with misinformation. In short, the same Michigan “family” members who have an opinion about our players and staff need to check themselves. Don’t throw rocks and hid your hands phonies. We see you!!!! THOSE WHO STAY WILL BE CHAMPIONS!!!!]V[ GO BLUE FOREVER!!!!”
Regardless of whether or not it’s more of a general statement, of if his words are directed at someone in particular, it’s clear that the struggles of the basketball program are causing different segments of the fan base and alumni to dig into their positions. While some still strongly support Howard and want him to be given an opportunity to turn things around, there are others who were ready to move on over a month ago.
The Wolverines have dropped nine of their last ten contests by an average of 19 points, and there’s no indication that things will change in the near future – meaning Michigan’s NCAA tournament hopes are essentially non-existent.
Either way you cut it, it will be interesting to see how athletic director Warde Manuel handles the situation with Howard during the off-season.
