Dear Spartan nation,
30 years.
It’s hard to think that what started as a dream in 1995—shaped by passion, uncertainty, and a bit green and white grit—has evolved into a lifetime of memories I’ll treasure forever. I’ve long said that Michigan State is more than simply a place where I coach; it’s also who I am. And tonight, after three decades of directing this amazing program, I’d like to speak from the heart.
This isn’t only about basketball. It never was.
It is about love. The sort that appears in the weight room at 6 a.m., in the clamor of the Izzone on a cold February night, in the hugs after Senior Night, and in the tears shed when seasons end prematurely. This town, my players, and the families that entrusted me with their boys have all shown me tremendous love. And I hope I returned that love with everything I had.
It’s about loyalty. I had the opportunity to depart. But every time I looked around Breslin, strolled around campus, or saw a small kid wearing a Spartan jersey in Meijer, I knew I was home. You, the fans, students, alumni, and everyday Spartans who have cheered through the highs and lows, have never wavered. Because of you, neither did I.
There have been championships, Final Fours, buzzer-beating performances, and memorable March runs. But I’ve also had the opportunity to celebrate graduations, weddings, babies, and jobs other than basketball. That’s what I’m most proud of: we created a program that helped young guys become leaders, husbands, and fathers.
So, where are we going from here?
We keep building.
We keep fighting.
We continue to live the Spartan Way—with tenacity, solidarity, and heart.
Thank you for believing in me for 30 years, for being by my side, and for making this journey the most enjoyable of my life.
With my whole heart,
Tom Izzo,
Head Coach
Michigan State Men’s Basketball.
#SpartanForLife 💚🏀