After the game, Izzo promised the media that he would not only come back, but would go above and above to put Michigan State back where they belong.
“I’m gonna get back to a deeper run in this tournament, or I’m going to die trying.”
This season, Izzo had already refuted reports of his impending retirement, but this comment takes the cake. It sends a message to supporters and former players that he wants to succeed rather than just serve as Michigan State’s coach. Can he, that is the question?
Izzo, 69, hasn’t taken the Spartans to a Final Four since 2019 and they haven’t competed for a Big Ten title since 2020. Last year they reached the Sweet 16, but that’s the only time MSU advanced to the second weekend of the tournament in the last four seasons. Heck, in 2021 they were relegated to the First Four and failed to advance.
By Izzo’s own high standards, Michigan State has been a disappointment. Maybe that’s why he’s willing to lay down his life to get the Spartans back where he thinks they belong. For his sake let’s hope he doesn’t have to be literal to accomplish that goal.
