Relationships, loyalty and trust matter to Michigan State's Tom Izzo
MSU head coach Tom Izzo talks "team" on media day, emphasizing his belief in relationships. He notes the development of players, camaraderie and faith he sees with his team and program. He also mentions support for the football team, something he always has done, and encourages all Spartans to do the same.
When it comes to Michigan State men's basketball, something special develops beyond the scoreboards and banners. For MSU head coach Tom Izzo, relationships are the most important thing — bonds built through discipline and tough love.
Basketball has created another family dynamic for Izzo. Wearing his heart on his sleeve, it’s undeniable that family also comes first for him. But it takes a whole team effort, and players who can give him that motivation through hard work and accountability.
Coach Izzo often praises his team for progress and improvements the Spartans make collectively as a unit. But it takes determination from all players within the team, especially when it comes to complementing his leadership style.
“In 31 years for me, it’s pretty exciting because what last year taught me is chemistry, relationships and things like that still matter in sports," Izzo said. "They should in every walk of life."
The Spartans enter the 2024-2025 season ranked as the No. 22 team in the Associated Press poll.
Typically, a captain steps up to be an extension of their head coach on and off the court — but for Michigan State, there’s more than one.
“We have four captains that were all picked by the team,” Izzo said.
In the past, Izzo has always stressed the importance of his team captains, but he’s never had four players who were unanimously selected by their teammates.
This season’s team captains are Carson Cooper (senior center), Jaxon Kohler (senior forward/center), Coen Carr (junior forward) and Jeremy Fears Jr. (redshirt sophomore). Mirroring Izzo’s credence in relationships, the team took care of their coach this summer by supporting each other with confidence.
“I think they believe in each one of those guys in a different way,” Izzo said.
