Michigan head basketball coach Juwan Howard had a successful heart procedure.

Juwan Howard, the head basketball coach at Michigan, underwent a successful heart operation at the University of Michigan Health Samuel and Jean Frankel Cardiovascular Center today, Friday, September 15.

The University of Michigan’s official press release is available for reading below:

ANN ARBOR, Michigan Juwan Howard, the basketball coach at the University of Michigan, received a successful cardiac procedure today, Friday, September 15, at the University of Michigan Health Samuel and Jean Frankel Cardiovascular Center. He is the son of David and Meredith Kaplan.

Dr. Himanshu Patel carried out the planned procedure, successfully repairing Howard’s aortic valve and resecting an aortic aneurysm. Howard should be fully recovered in six to twelve weeks, according to Patel, and he may be back in the program in four to six weeks.

During Howard’s recuperation, U-M’s associate head coach Phil Martelli will take over as head coach. Jay Smith will be promoted to third assistant during the interim, while Saddi Washington and Howard Eisley will continue in their duties as assistants.

“I feel so grateful and blessed that this surgery was performed at University of Michigan Health,” Howard remarked. “My spouse, Jenine, and our family are grateful for the exceptional treatment we have received. The doctors at the Frankel Cardiovascular Center—Drs. Kim Eagle, Himanshu Patel, Stanley Chetcuti, and others—are incredibly gifted, and they all worked like champs during this procedure. I’m going to put a lot of effort into my recovery so that when our next season rolls around, I’ll be stronger than before.”

Donald R. Shepherd Director of Athletics Warde Manuel remarked, “We are very grateful Juwan’s proactive procedure was a success and that he is resting comfortably.” “Throughout Juwan’s absence, we will keep up our support for the program, Jenine, and his family. We in the athletic department are all thinking and praying for Juwan. Juwan’s comeback when he feels completely recovered is something we look forward to.”

After a standard physical examination, Howard’s ailments were determined, and the surgery was planned as soon as feasible to enable a full recovery for the 2023–24 season.