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University of Michigan men's basketball coach Juwan Howard apologized after an altercation at the Wolverines' game against the University of Wisconsin, saying there are "no excuses" for throwing an open hand at the opposing team's coaching staff.
"After taking time to reflect on all that happened, I realize how unacceptable both my actions and words were, and how they affected so many. I am truly sorry," Howard said in a statement shared with Fox 2 Detroit following the incident.
"I am offering my sincerest apology to my players and their families, my staff, my family and the Michigan fans around the world," he added. "I would like to personally apologize to Wisconsin's Assistant Coach Joe Krabbenhoft and his family, too."
He continued: "Lastly, I speak a lot about being a Michigan man and representing the University of Michigan with class and pride, I did not do that, nor did I set the right example in the right way for my student-athletes. I will learn from my mistake and this mistake will never happen again. No excuses!"
Howard was suspended for five games — the rest of the regular season — and was fined $40,000 for his involvement in the altercation, the Big 10 said in a press release. University of Wisconsin Head Coach Greg Gard was fined $10,000 for his participation, the Big 10 said.
The fight broke out after the coaches exchanged words in the handshake line after the game on Sunday, in which Wisconsin beat Michigan 77-63.
They were separated until a Wisconsin assistant coach started yelling at Howard, which prompted Howard to throw a hand toward the coaching team.
Video of the incident showed Howard's hand striking Krabbenhoft in the face as security tried to break up the altercation.
