JUST Now: Michigan State’s Tom Izzo named the 2024-2025 Big Ten Coach of the Year.after G…..
Yes—just now, Michigan State’s venerable head coach Tom Izzo was officially named the 2024–2025 Big Ten Coach of the Year, marking a remarkable fourth time he’s received this honor (previously in 1998, 2009, and 2012) .
—
🏀 Why this award matters
Conference recognition by both coaches and media
The award is jointly selected by Big Ten coaches and media panelists—a testament to its prestige. Izzo earned this malevolent acclaim not just once but from both voting bodies this year .
Unprecedented longevity and excellence
At 70, he becomes one of the oldest coaches ever to claim Coach of the Year, and his 13-year gap since 2012 is the longest between individual wins in league history . His adaptability and sustained relevance in college basketball remain unmatched.
—
The 2024–25 season achievements
Exceeded preseason expectations
MSU was projected to finish around fifth in the Big Ten and was unranked in the AP Poll at the season’s outset .
Regular-season domination
Izzo guided the Spartans to a dominant 17‑3 conference mark—good for first place and three games clear of the pack . This secured their 11th Big Ten regular-season title under Izzo, tying the all-time record .
Resilient turnaround
Despite a midseason dip (losing three out of four), the team rebounded to end the stretch with a seven-game win streak, including five against ranked opponents —a testament to strategic coaching and relentless culture .
Stellar overall performance
MSU posted a strong overall record of 30–7 and reached the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament .
—
Context & Legacy
Fourth time earning the honor
With this latest honor, Izzo joins an elite cadre of coaches with four-plus Coach of the Year awards: Bobby Knight, Gene Keady, Matt Painter, Bo Ryan, and now himself .
Big Ten coaching icon
Under his 30-year reign at MSU, Izzo holds the record for Big Ten conference wins (354 as of Feb 2025) and has maintained an astonishing 27‑year NCAA Tournament streak, the longest active within the league .
Love of the game endures
At an age when many peers have retired, Izzo continues to show zeal and humor in his work. As one report put it:
> “At age 70… Izzo remains motivated by his love for working with players and the competitive spirit of the game.”
—
Reaction and reflection
Fans and analysts see it as deserved
On r/CollegeBasketball, one fan noted approvingly that “MSU is rolling. This was the right choice.” Another chimed in, “Robbed yourself down the stretch”—affirming how challenging the final stretch was, yet ultimately validating Izzo’s leadership .
From unlikely contender to champion
Critics have praised Izzo’s adjustments throughout the season—his strategic lineup tweaks, minutes shifts, and player development all propelled MSU from underdogs to outright champions .
—
In summary
Tom Izzo’s 2024–25 season stands as a superb example of veteran coaching excellence—turning low preseason expectations into a dominating conference campaign, reinforcing his legacy as one of college basketball’s most consistent and respected figures. This Coach of the Year accolade not only adds to his personal trophy case but also underscores his ongoing relevance and impact in a fast-evolving sport.
Curious how the players he coached—like Jaden Akins, Jase Richardson, and more—responded to his leadership? I’d be happy to dive into their performances and honors too!