The Kansas Jayhawks have suspended assistant basketball coach Jerrance Howard for two weeks following the discovery of a 2014 drug arrest in Illinois.
Howard, also former player under coach Bill Self during his tenure at Illinois, was charged with a misdemeanor marijuana possession in July of 2014 as reported by ESPN.
Howard was ordered to pay a fine of $1,178.26 and placed on a six month supervision by the court which is set to conclude this Friday.
Though this arrest occurred back in July of 2014, Kansas and coach Bill Self were unaware of Howard’s violation until Wednesday, February 11.
While discussing the violation Bill Self went on record stating:
“Just to be real candid, I’m disappointed I didn’t know about it. I love the guy. And the fact that I didn’t know about it regardless of what circumstances surrounded it is disappointing to me.” ” Jerrance has been a part of our family for many years, I’m confident that he will take ownership of this and be better for it.”
That’s exactly what it seems Howard has done. In a statement released by the university pertaining to the 2014 arrest and subsequent suspension Howard said:
“I take full responsibility for my actions, I should have never been in that situation. Not only did I let myself down but also my family, my coaches, my players, the fans and this program.”
“I compounded the problem by not disclosing this incident to Coach Self and Kansas athletics,” he continues. “I brought this penalty upon myself and will use this situation as motivation to work harder and represent this great program positively moving forward.”
Howard being one of Bill Self’s top recruiters known particularly for his role in helping to land 5-star recruit Cliff Alexander, will resume regular duties with staff upon completion of his suspension.