Michigan State's Kur Teng Energized After Izzo Comments, Big Shot

Teng looks to keep momentum going in key matchup at Wisconsin

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Michigan State basketball player Kur Teng is unfazed by recent comments from head coach Tom Izzo and is instead focused on building off his clutch 3-pointer that helped the Spartans defeat Illinois. Teng is looking to carry that energy and performance into a key upcoming game against Wisconsin.

Why it matters

Teng's big shot against Illinois was a momentum-shifting moment for Michigan State, which is looking to solidify its position in the Big Ten standings. The Spartans' matchup with Wisconsin will be a crucial test as both teams vie for postseason positioning.

The details

In the wake of Izzo's comments about Teng and his mother, the sophomore guard said he is fine with "Izzo being Izzo" and is instead concentrating on building off his clutch 3-pointer that helped Michigan State defeat Illinois. Teng's timely shot energized the Spartans and he hopes to keep that momentum going as they prepare to face Wisconsin.

  • Teng hit the game-changing 3-pointer against Illinois on February 11, 2026.
  • Michigan State will play at Wisconsin on February 15, 2026.

The players

Kur Teng

A sophomore guard for the Michigan State Spartans basketball team.

Tom Izzo

The head coach of the Michigan State Spartans basketball team, known for his intense coaching style.

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What they’re saying

“Izzo being Izzo, that's how I look at it.”

— Kur Teng, Michigan State Guard (on3.com)

What’s next

Michigan State will look to Teng to provide a similar spark when they face Wisconsin on February 15, 2026 in a key Big Ten matchup.

The takeaway

Teng's ability to brush off Izzo's comments and instead focus on building off his clutch performance against Illinois shows his maturity and focus. If he can carry that energy into the Wisconsin game, it could be a pivotal moment in Michigan State's season.