Juwan Howard releases statement on Hunter Dickinson's decision to transfer

Hunter Dickinson shocked many across the college basketball world when he entered the transfer portal Friday. A few hours later, Michigan coach Juwan Howard released a statement about his decision.

Dickinson spent three years with the Wolverines and had another impressive season in 2022-23, averaging 18.5 points and 9.0 rebounds per game to lead Michigan. It was a great follow-up to his 2021-22 season in which he averaged 18.6 points and 8.6 rebounds per contest one year after winning the Big Ten Freshman of the Year award.

But even beyond the stat sheet, Howard said Dickinson made an impact on the program during his time in Ann Arbor, which is why he wished him well in his future.

“Today is bittersweet,” Howard said. “While Hunter Dickinson’s departure is unfortunate, there are so many reasons to be thankful for and celebrate. This young man has accomplished so much in his three seasons. 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. 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.”

Dickinson racked up plenty of accolades at Michigan. He was the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2021 and a consensus All-American that year. In addition, he was a two-time first team All-Big Ten selection and made the conference’s All-Defense Team in 2022.

Dickinson arrived on campus as a four-star recruit and the No. 44-ranked prospect in the nation from the 2020 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, an equally weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. After entering the portal, Dickinson immediately became the No. 1-ranked transfer this cycle, according to the On3 Transfer Portal Rankings.

He leaves some big shoes to fill on the roster and is the second high-profile departure for the Wolverines this year. Jett Howard previously announced his plans to declare for the 2023 NBA Draft after averaging 14.2 points per game this season — just behind Dickinson. Now, the Wolverines are set to replace their top two scorers next year.

It’s not just subtractions for Michigan, though. On Friday, the Wolverines landed a commitment from former Alabama guard Nimari Burnett — the No. 16-ranked shooting guard to hit the portal, according to the On3 Transfer Portal Rankings.