Today has been a day of mixed feelings for fans of the Michigan Wolverines. Earlier this afternoon, the Michigan football team landed a massive commitment from five-star quarterback Jadyn Davis; however, not long after this news, Michigan basketball star Hunter Dickinson entered his name into the transfer portal. Now, for the first time since Dickinson’s announcement was made, Wolverine basketball coach Juwan Howard commented on the departure of Hunter Dickinson.
Michigan basketball coach Juwan Howard comments on the departure of Hunter Dickinson
Since Juwan Howard’s second season with the Michigan basketball program, Hunter Dickinson has been his top player. As a freshman in 2020-21, Dickinson shinned and helped lead the Wolverines to an outright Big Ten Championship and a magical run to the Elite 8 as a 1-seed in the NCAA tournament. Last season, despite Michigan’s struggles, Dickinson played a massive role in another incredible Michigan basketball tournament run, which saw the Wolverines down Colorado State and Tennessee en route to the program’s 5th-straight Sweet 16.
Now that fans are settling into the idea of the departure of Hunter Dickinson following the Wolverines’ embarrassing 18-15 NIT season in 2022-23, Juwan Howard released his official comments on Dickinson’s decision to enter the transfer portal.
Howard’s official statement on Dickinson
“Today is bittersweet,” Juwan Howard said in his official statement on Friday evening. “While Hunter Dickinson’s departure is unfortunate, there are so many reasons to be thankful for the and celebrate. This young man has accomplished so much in his three seasons [with Michigan basketball]. Statistics aside, Hunter helped us to a Big Ten title, back-to-back Sweet 16s, as well as a memorable Elite Eight run. These are memories that will last a lifetime.”
Howard continued, “What I love most is he was an Academic All-Big Ten honoree, twice. That says so much about his character and maturity. As much as I tried to instill in him, he was a guide and inspiration for me. We wish Hunter and his family all the best in the future.”
The hits appear to keep on coming for the Michigan Wolverines basketball team, who will now look to replace their top player from the past three seasons heading into a crucial 2023-24 season next winter.
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