In a recent development that has left the University of Michigan basketball program in a state of uncertainty, an alleged confrontation between Michigan head basketball coach Juwan Howard and longtime strength and conditioning coach Jon Sanderson is now under investigation by the University of Michigan human resources. The incident took place on December 7, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The alleged dispute between Howard and Sanderson reportedly arose from a disagreement involving an athletic trainer and senior guard Jace Howard, who has been sidelined this season due to a stress fracture. Sanderson, a 15-year employee and a well-known figure among Michigan fans, became involved in the dispute, which escalated to a heated exchange of words between him and Howard. Witnesses state that although no physical altercation occurred, the situation became tense and required intervention to separate the two.

Sanderson, who has been integral to the team's success and is one of the few remaining members from the previous coaching regime, did not show up for work on December 8 and has since been absent from team travel and practices. He has not provided any comment on the matter.

University of Michigan human resources will now conduct an investigation to gather and review the facts surrounding the incident, including obtaining Howard's account. The findings will then be presented to Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel and the university's legal counsel, who will ultimately determine if any policies were violated. This review is significant for Howard, as his employment at the university is under a "zero-tolerance policy" following a postgame skirmish in February 2022, where he was involved in a clash with Wisconsin coach Greg Gard and struck a Wisconsin assistant coach.

The ongoing season has already presented challenges for Howard, who underwent heart surgery in September and has been transitioning back to his coaching responsibilities since late November. Associate head coach Phil Martelli has been serving as interim head coach during Howard's recovery period. The upcoming game against Eastern Michigan remains unclear, as it is uncertain whether Howard will serve as an assistant or head coach.

The University of Michigan basketball program currently holds a 5-5 record this season, with a 1-1 standing in the Big Ten. Howard, who signed a contract extension through the 2025-26 season in November 2021, has not addressed the media since last March's National Invitation Tournament loss to Vanderbilt.