In a season marked by historic milestones and remarkable resilience, Michigan State University head coach Tom Izzo has been named the 2025 Big Ten Coach of the Year, capping a campaign that solidified his legacy as one of college basketball’s greatest leaders.
Izzo, now in his 30th season at the helm of the Spartans, guided a retooled roster to a 26–5 regular-season record and a 17–3 mark in Big Ten play, securing the program’s 11th regular-season conference title under his leadership. This achievement tied the all-time Big Ten record for most regular-season championships by a head coach.
The Spartans’ success was particularly impressive given the preseason expectations. After losing their top three scorers from the previous season, Michigan State was projected to finish fifth in the conference. Instead, Izzo’s squad not only defied those predictions but also set a school record for most Big Ten wins in a single season.
A defining moment of the season came on February 15, when Michigan State defeated Illinois 79–65 on the road. The victory marked Izzo’s 354th Big Ten win, surpassing the legendary Bob Knight for the most conference victories in league history. Reflecting on the milestone, Izzo expressed humility and gratitude, stating, “If I could be in the same breath with him on that, that’s great for me. I have great respect for him as a coach.
Beyond the numbers, Izzo’s impact on the program and the sport is immeasurable. Under his guidance, Michigan State has made 27 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, the longest active streak by a coach at a single school. His teams have reached eight Final Fours and captured the national championship in 2000.
This season’s success was fueled by the emergence of young talents like freshman Jase Richardson, who averaged 16.9 points and 4.8 rebounds over the final nine games of the regular season. The development of such players underscores Izzo’s ability to adapt and thrive in the evolving landscape of college basketbal.
As the Spartans prepare for another NCAA Tournament run, Izzo’s latest accolades serve as a testament to his enduring excellence and transformative influence on the game. His commitment to the program, the university, and the sport continues to inspire players, fans, and fellow coaches alike.
