A program introducing an NBA player or coach without college coaching experience, as Michigan will formally do with Juwan Howard on Thursday, isn't necessarily a new thing. Several high-major schools have done it in recent years, with St. John's hiring Chris Mullin, Georgetown bringing back Patrick Ewing and Memphis going for Penny Hardaway. Iowa State went for Fred Hoiberg and Alabama hired Avery Johnson. There was FIU hiring Isiah Thomas and FAU hiring Michael Curry. Tulane springing for Mike Dunleavy Sr., Portland hiring Terry Porter and Charlotte bringing in Mark Price. Dan Majerle was tapped for the Grand Canyon job.
Michigan hire, Penny's progress have college basketball's attention
