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Izzo Praises Illinois After Michigan State Win
Spartans head coach says Illini are 'a better team' despite victory
Feb. 8, 2026 at 11:55am
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Despite Michigan State's 85-82 overtime victory over Illinois on Saturday, Spartans head coach Tom Izzo praised the Illini, saying they are 'a better team' than his squad right now. Izzo acknowledged that the Spartans outperformed Illinois in several statistical categories, but noted that the Illini still managed to score 82 points, indicating how talented they are.
Why it matters
Izzo's comments are noteworthy because coaches rarely admit their opponent is the better team, especially after defeating them. This speaks to the quality of the Illinois program and the respect Izzo has for them, even in defeat. It also raises questions about whether Illinois can bounce back from this loss and solidify their status as the better team in the Big Ten.
The details
In the game, Michigan State outrebounded Illinois 48-38 and shot better from the field, three-point range, and the free-throw line. The Spartans also had 22 fastbreak points compared to zero for the Illini. However, Illinois still managed to score 82 points, which Izzo said 'shows you how good they are'.
- The game was played on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
The players
Tom Izzo
The head coach of the Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team.
Brad Underwood
The head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball team.
Jeremy Fears Jr.
A player for the Michigan State Spartans who had more assists than Illinois's entire roster.
What they’re saying
“I know how good they are. That's a better team than we are right now. And especially going into this game. They had won 12 in a row, and we were limping. That's a better team right now. And yet I thought we played better – and that's why you play the games.”
— Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State Spartans
“But just think, all the things we're talking about, and it still took overtime [to beat them]. They didn't shoot well. They didn't do this well. They didn't do that well. They still scored 82 points. So I think that shows you how good they are.”
— Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State Spartans
What’s next
With seven Big Ten games remaining, Illinois will have opportunities to prove they are the better team and solidify their status before the NCAA Tournament.
The takeaway
Izzo's praise for Illinois, even in defeat, highlights the quality of the Illini program and the respect they have earned around the Big Ten. This loss could serve as motivation for Illinois to bounce back and show they are the superior team in the conference.
