Dusty May gets attention with Juwan Howard after the Nets-Pistons game

Head coach of the Michigan Wolverines Dusty May had a chance to catch up with Juwan Howard during the Detroit Pistons’ historic win over the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday night.

May is halfway through his second season with the Wolverines, accepting the job after a historic six-year stint with the Florida Atlantic Owls. He replaced Howard in that position, who was fired by the program after five seasons from 2019-2024.

May reconnected with the Michigan legend during Detroit’s game against Brooklyn, according to reporter Tony Garcia. Howard now serves as an assistant coach on the Nets’ coaching staff, moving forward with the next chapter of his coaching career.

“Michigan basketball coach Dusty May was at tonight’s loss of the Pistons against the Nets (130-77). After the game, he hugged former Michigan coach Juwan Howard, who is an assistant coach in Brooklyn,” Garcia wrote.

Michigan basketball coach Dusty May was at tonight’s loss of the Pistons against the Nets (130-77). After the game, he hugged former Michigan coach Juwan Howard, who is an assistant coach in Brooklyn.

📸: @junfuphoto pic.tvitter.com/TkrtbgmeoK

— Tony Garcia | Detroit Free Press (@RealTonyGarcia) February 2, 2026

What awaits Dusty May, Michigan

Dusty May certainly respects Juwan Howard, who has an undeniable legacy at Michigan as a player and coach.

Howard finished with an 87-72 overall record, going 49-48 in Big Ten Play. He led the program to NCAA Tournament berths in 2021 and 2022. His best year was the first when the Wolverines reached the Elite Eight of the 2021 tournament.

May is looking to continue his momentum with the program, leading them to the Sweet 16 last season. This season could be his best yet, elevating Michigan into the conversation as a national championship contender.

Michigan boasts a 19-3 overall record, going 10-1 in Big Ten games so far. They hold second place in the conference standings, above the Michigan State Spartans and Nebraska Cornhuskers while trailing the Illinois Fighting Illini.

The third Wolverines will continue their preparations for their next match, as they are at home. They host the Penn State Nittany Lions on February 5th at 6:30pm ET.