In a groundbreaking moment that transcends college athletics, legendary Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo has been named the first NCAA head coach ever invited to the globally celebrated Presidents Cup, not as a player or coach, but as the official Global Ambassador of Integrity in Sports. The announcement marks a historic crossover between the world of college basketball and international golf diplomacy.
The Presidents Cup, a biennial golf tournament featuring the best professional players from the United States and around the world (excluding Europe), has traditionally spotlighted figures within the golf world. This year, however, the organizers are shaking things up — and making history — by including one of college basketball’s most respected icons on the global stage.
Izzo, who has led Michigan State to eight Final Fours, one national championship, and over 700 career wins, is known as much for his coaching acumen as for his fierce commitment to sportsmanship, character, and leadership. Those values, say event organizers, made him the perfect choice to serve as the inaugural Global Ambassador of Integrity in Sports — a new honorary title created to spotlight values that transcend sport.
“Tom Izzo represents everything that is great about sports,” said Mike Whan, CEO of the PGA of America. “His impact goes far beyond the basketball court. We’re thrilled to welcome him into the Presidents Cup family as we continue to emphasize the role of sportsmanship, leadership, and global unity.”
Izzo will attend the 2025 Presidents Cup in Seoul, South Korea, where he will participate in youth outreach clinics, serve on an international panel discussing ethics in athletics, and join world leaders and athletes in promoting integrity across all levels of sport.
“This is humbling,” said Izzo. “I’ve spent my career trying to build young men of character through the game of basketball. To be recognized on an international stage like the Presidents Cup — that’s something I never dreamed of. It’s not just an honor for me, it’s an honor for Michigan State, for the Big Ten, and for all of college athletics.”
With this invitation, Izzo not only cements his status as a coaching legend, but also as a trailblazer taking Spartan pride worldwide. The green and white will shine a little brighter on the international stage this year — and Tom Izzo will be at the center of it all.
