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MSU's Tom Izzo Named to Naismith Coach of the Year Watch List
Michigan State's legendary head coach continues to lead the Spartans to success.
Feb. 21, 2026 at 11:03am
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Michigan State's head basketball coach Tom Izzo has been named to the Naismith Men's College Coach of the Year Watch List. Izzo, in his 31st season at the helm in East Lansing, has led the Spartans to a 21-5 overall record and 11-4 in Big Ten play so far this season.
Why it matters
Izzo's inclusion on the prestigious watch list further cements his status as one of the top college basketball coaches in the country. Michigan State has consistently been a powerhouse under Izzo's leadership, and this recognition highlights his ability to get the most out of his teams year after year.
The details
Izzo is one of 15 coaches named to the Naismith Coach of the Year Watch List, and one of four from the Big Ten Conference along with Dusty May (Michigan), Fred Hoiberg (Nebraska), and Brad Underwood (Illinois). Despite some preseason doubts, Izzo has guided the Spartans to a 21-5 record and a top-15 national ranking so far this season.
- Izzo was named to the watch list on Friday, February 21, 2026.
- Michigan State is currently 15th in the AP Poll with an overall record of 21-5 and 11-4 in Big Ten play.
The players
Tom Izzo
The legendary head coach of the Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team, in his 31st season leading the program.
Dusty May
The head coach of the Michigan Wolverines men's basketball team, also named to the Naismith Coach of the Year Watch List.
Fred Hoiberg
The head coach of the Nebraska Cornhuskers men's basketball team, also named to the Naismith Coach of the Year Watch List.
Brad Underwood
The head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball team, also named to the Naismith Coach of the Year Watch List.
What’s next
Michigan State will have several opportunities to bolster its resume for the NCAA Tournament, with four of its five remaining regular season games coming against other NCAA Tournament contenders, including road games at No. 7 Purdue and No. 1 Michigan.
The takeaway
Tom Izzo's inclusion on the Naismith Coach of the Year Watch List is a testament to his continued excellence in leading the Michigan State Spartans program. Despite some preseason doubts, Izzo has guided the Spartans to another strong season, and they will look to carry that momentum into the postseason.
