Report: Michigan's Howard turned down interest from Lakers

Michigan head coach Juwan Howard recently rebuffed interest from the Los Angeles Lakers regarding their head coaching vacancy, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

Howard, 49, reportedly turned away the Lakers to remain with the Wolverines, where he'll coach sons Jace and Jett next season. Jace will be in his third season with Michigan, while the younger Jett is entering his freshman year after committing to the school in October.

The Lakers are still pursuing a new head coach after dismissing Frank Vogel following the 2021-22 campaign. Los Angeles has reportedly narrowed its search down to three finalists: Kenny Atkinson, Terry Stotts, and Darvin Ham.

Howard has never been a full-time head coach in the NBA, but he worked six seasons as an assistant with the Miami Heat from 2013-19, following a 19-year playing career.

In three seasons with the Wolverines, Howard has gone a combined 61-32 in the regular season and taken Michigan to two NCAA Tournaments. He was named the Big Ten and Associated Press Coach of the Year for the 2020-21 season. The school extended his contract through 2025-26 in November.