As early as last week, Cougar coach Mark Pope said he was hopeful that Harward, who is dealing with a cardiovascular issue, would be able to return at some point during the season.

On Tuesday, Harward posted on his Instagram account that he will miss the rest of the 2021-22 campaign.

“Thank you for everything Cougar Nation!” his Instagram account reads. “After consulting with my doctors and coaches I have decided to take a step back from basketball. The condition affecting my heart has developed further complications. For my health and safety, it has been determined I will be out the remainder of the season. I have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of kindness and support. I am looking forward to cheering the team on to a great season! Go Cougs!”

In an exhibition game against Colorado Christian on November 4, Harward came out of the game early and appeared to faint on the bench. Since that time, he was not practiced or suited up for games as doctors have tried to determine how best to move forward.

The 6-11 Harward, who prepped at Orem High School, played at Utah Valley for two seasons before transferring to Provo when Pope took over the BYU program in 2019. After redshirting that season, Harward played in 27 games during the 2020-21 campaign, averaging 6.1 points and 4.3 rebounds per game while shooting 60 percent from the field. He was expected to be a key contributor this season.

More than his on-court statistics, the excitable Harward is an emotional leader for BYU who often is called upon for pre-game speeches and inspirational messages.

The Cougars also lost 6-foot-9 Gavin Baxter to a season-ending knee injury against Utah Valley on Dec. 1, so they find themselves a much smaller and very inexperienced team in the post with 6-8 sophomore Caleb Lohner, 6-6 freshman Fousseyni Traore and 6-9 freshman Atiki Ally Atiki.

BYU (8-2) travels to Ogden on Saturday to play at the Dee Events Center against Weber State.