Howard, who had offseason heart surgery, had not yet returned as Michigan’s full-time coach at the time of the incident with Sanderson. On Dec. 15, athletic director Warde Manuel released a statement announcing Howard’s return and exonerating him from any wrongdoing.

“The return of our usual coaching structure comes after a review of an incident involving several individuals during a team practice last week,” Manuel said in the statement. “Based on a thorough internal review, nothing was found to warrant disciplinary action for anyone involved. As such, we will move forward with a focus on our team and our season.”

After Michigan’s win over Eastern Michigan at Crisler Center the next day, Howard was asked if there was anything he wanted to add to Manuel’s statement. “I would basically piggyback on what Warde said,” Howard said. “Refer to his statement. I think it was clear. It was precise. And there’s still a review happening at this moment.”

Asked specifically about Sanderson’s status, Howard said, “I’m not sure. I would definitely say to you: go back to that statement that Warde made and that will of course answer any question that you have.”

Manuel’s statement, though, did not mention Sanderson nor any additional review.

It’s hard to quantify what Sanderson has meant to the program over the years, but Howard certainly appreciated his contributions.

“Jon is one of the best strength and conditioning coaches in the country on the collegiate level,” Howard said after a game in 2021. He cited Sanderson’s experience as a college basketball player (at Ohio and Ohio State), his importance in the recruiting process, and his role in developing the players who end up at Michigan.