Tom Izzo

Growing up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Tom Izzo learned the value of hard work early in life. That work ethic carried over to the basketball court where the walk-on became a Division II All-America at Northern Michigan University. Following one year at Ishpeming High School and four seasons as an assistant at his alma mater, Izzo arrived at Michigan State in the fall of 1983, eventually becoming head coach in 1995. By his fourth season his program advanced to what would become the first of seven Final Fours in his first 20 years, and in just his fifth season, he guided the Spartans to the 2000 NCAA national championship. Five more Final Fours would follow as Izzo became the Big Ten’s all-time leader in Final Four appearances, NCAA Tournament wins and consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, ranking among the all-time best in college basketball history. Michigan State’s all-time winningest coach, Izzo is a strong advocate for coaches and a guardian of the game, while he is also universally recognized for being among the most media-accessible, frank, and personable coaches in the profession.