WASHINGTON — Long after midnight on Saturday, following Tom Izzo’s Michigan State squad’s defeat in the Sweet 16, the septuagenarian coach was queried about his future plans for the next five years.
“Aiming to secure a national championship — unequivocally,” he stated.
Izzo has led Michigan State to eight Final Fours and claimed the Big Ten’s latest national championship in men’s basketball back in 2000. He would face little scrutiny if he chose to retire from coaching, a path many of his colleagues have taken in this contemporary era shaped by the transfer portal and name, image and likeness policies.
Conversely, it appears he’s not even contemplating that possibility.
“We all discuss stepping down,” Izzo remarked after the Spartans suffered a 67-63 defeat by UConn. “Why? What would I even do? The moment I no longer feel well, the instant I sense I’m not dedicating my full effort to my Athletic Director, president, or institution daily, or if that vigor wanes, there’s no need for concern. I do not take unearned compensation. I will not waste anyone’s time.”
Izzo hasn’t reached the Final Four since 2019 — marking the most extended period without an appearance in his career. Yet, he promptly declared the Spartans’ outlook optimistic after Jeremy Fears and Coen Carr — both still eligible — departed the post-match press conference stage following a difficult defeat where Michigan State lagged 25-6 before rallying to seize the advantage in the second half.
“Tomorrow I’m accessing the portal,” Izzo stated.
“The sole distinction is that the portal at Michigan State is distinct from the portal at many other institutions. I’m heading directly to my own darn locker room, and I’m going to converse with every single player right there. I’m going to formulate some choices about our next steps that I am highly confident in.”
Izzo anticipates bringing back seven to eight players, complemented by what he characterized as a promising rookie cohort.
“I’m the most fortunate individual in the world. I’m merely not fortunate enough to be competing this Sunday,” Izzo remarked. “I will have the opportunity to compete again on a future Sunday. Stick around.”