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Tom Izzo, 71, Scoffs at Retirement Talk After Spartans' Exit
Michigan State's legendary coach has no plans to step away after another NCAA Tournament run.
Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:08pm
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Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo, 71, made it clear he has no plans to retire anytime soon after the Spartans were eliminated from the NCAA Tournament. Izzo, who has led Michigan State for 31 seasons and won a national championship in 2000, said he is focused on winning another title and has no intention of stepping away from the program.
Why it matters
Izzo is one of the most respected and successful coaches in college basketball, having led Michigan State to 28 NCAA Tournament appearances and eight Final Fours. His continued presence at the helm of the Spartans program is crucial for the team's continued success and relevance in the highly competitive Big Ten conference.
The details
After Michigan State's Sweet 16 loss to UConn, Izzo was asked where he sees himself in five years. He emphatically responded that he is "trying to win a national championship — plain and simple." Izzo, who has a 764-310 (.711) record at Michigan State, said he expects seven or eight players from this season's team to return along with a strong freshman class, and he plans to be active in the transfer portal to bolster the roster.
- On March 24, 2026, Michigan State lost to UConn in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.
- Tom Izzo has been the head coach of Michigan State since the 1995-96 season.
The players
Tom Izzo
The 71-year-old head coach of the Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team, who has led the program for 31 seasons and won a national championship in 2000.
Michigan State Spartans
The men's basketball team of Michigan State University, which competes in the Big Ten Conference and is one of the most successful programs in college basketball history.
What they’re saying
“Trying to win a national championship — plain and simple.”
— Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State Spartans
“The only difference is the portal at Michigan State is different than the portal at most places. I'm going right to my frickin' locker room, and I'm going to talk to each and every player right there. I'm going to make some decisions about what we're going to do that I feel very comfortable with.”
— Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State Spartans
What’s next
Izzo and the Michigan State coaching staff will now focus on retaining key players, recruiting new talent through the transfer portal, and preparing for the 2026-27 season with the goal of making another deep NCAA Tournament run.
The takeaway
Tom Izzo's unwavering commitment to Michigan State and his passion for winning another national championship at the age of 71 demonstrate his enduring impact on the college basketball landscape. His continued leadership will be crucial for the Spartans as they look to build on their strong 2025-26 season and compete for titles in the years to come.
