The Michigan basketball program won the victory over Maryland on New Year’s Eve and did so with a heavy heart while the Wolverines program is mourning the loss of Chicago basketball legend Donnie Kirksey, who passed away at 57 years of complications from COVID-19
Whenever Kirksey’s name was mentioned, the name of UM’s head coach, Juwan Howard, was mentioned shortly afterwards as a person who was heavily impacted by Kirksey. A longtime mentor to the Wolverines’ head coach, it was a tough week for the Howard family. Kirksey’s personality and impact not only touched Juwan, but also affected his wife and children.
Kirksey leaves behind a lasting legacy and a life well lived.
“It’s been difficult,” said Howard after the Wolverines’ victory over Maryland. “It’s been very difficult for me and my family because we lost a loved one. A guy who had a big mark in my life, helping me to be the man I am today. He didn’t have to do that. Donnie Kirksey was an inspiration not just for me, but for other young people like me who came from situations where they were just trying to make a difference in life and he was always that guy to step in and be a supporter. Be a father figure. Be a mentor, be a brother older, be an uncle. My kids love you like no other and it’s hurting my kids and my wife. It’s been very challenging for her.
Of course, it would be understandable if Howard decided to take a few days off the program to mourn the loss of a friend and mentor. However, he did not do that. He felt it was important to be with his program, to feel the importance of the team and his second family.
More importantly, however, Howard knew it was something Kirksey would like him to do.
“You know what? I had to roll up my sleeves because I know this team needs me,” said Howard. “Besides, I know that Donnie would like me to go here and prepare this team to go out there and compete. He wouldn’t like it any other way. It’s that simple. I’m going to continue living my life. Donnie Kirksey’s legacy. I have had many deaths in my family recently. I have some beautiful angels up there who are supporting and helping me in these difficult times. “
Not a VIP member of The Michigan Insider? subscribe now and get access to everything that TMI has to offer about all things Michigan and access to the No. 1 site that covers the Wolverines.
Do you want to receive the latest news about Michigan directly to your email? Sign up for The Michigan Insider newsletter here. It’s free and a great way to receive daily updates on football, basketball, baseball, recruiting and more right in your inbox
Sign up to receive FREE text alerts at The Michigan Insider for breaking news about appointments, disengagements, transfers, injuries, coaching changes and more with our NEW text alert system available to all registered users and subscribers VIP. click here to become a FREE registered user and click here if you are already a VIP subscriber, then follow these instructions to set up your text alerts.