Heat's Juwan Howard is Fab Five's last hope at a title

Miami Heat forward Juwan Howard has phoned Chris Webber during the NBA Finals. He's sent text messages to Jalen Rose. Although their careers are at opposite ends, the conversation remains the same.

Howard is not only in position to win a championship with the Heat, but also capture a trophy for one of college basketball's most celebrated teams. He is the last active member of Michigan's Fab Five, and stands just two victories from winning one for the group. The Heat trail the Dallas Mavericks 3-2 in the best-of-7 series.

"You know what, if I win a championship, the family wins one," Howard said. "Because we're all like family. I know Jalen told you guys before the season started that if I win one, it's like he's going to win one. He's going to wear the ring, too."

"I know that they're definitely cheering me on," Howard said. "They're very supportive. We discussed it throughout the season as far as how important this series is not only just for me, but for all of us. Hopefully one of us will get a ring."

Webber, now an analyst at NBA TV, said he's been on "pins and needles" while watching Howard play in the Finals. Howard, a former All-Star who is now a role player, is averaging 5.8 minutes a game against the Mavericks.

The limited role means nothing to his former teammates. They are viewing the experience as if he were a primary contributor.

"It would be definitely great for us because we love each other," Webber said. "We would love to see him do it, not for Michigan or not for anyone else, but just because we love him."

They haven't spoken as much recently because of their hectic schedules, with Howard playing and Rose and Webber both in the media. Rose works as an analyst for ESPN, but has stayed in contact with Howard during the Finals.

"Of course, I've called him," Rose said. "Of course, I've texted him. We're like brothers. Whether it's me running into his son at AmericanAirlines Arena or whether it's talking about things he can do to be more of a contributor, we're talking. … We're excited for him. If anybody deserves it, it's him. He was always the voice of the reason for us."