Michigan State Coach Izzo Calls for 'Gut Check' After Tough Loss

Spartans fall to Minnesota 76-73 amid concerns over slow starts and defensive lapses

Feb. 5, 2026 at 1:55am

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Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo expressed frustration with his team's performance following a 76-73 loss to Minnesota on Wednesday night. Izzo blamed himself and his upperclassmen players for the Spartans' slow starts and poor defensive execution in the game, which marked the third straight contest where Michigan State has struggled out of the gate.

Why it matters

As one of the most respected coaches in college basketball, Izzo's public criticism of his team's effort and focus raises concerns about the Spartans' ability to bounce back and compete at a high level for the remainder of the season. Michigan State's slow starts and defensive lapses could jeopardize their chances of making the NCAA Tournament if the issues persist.

The details

Michigan State fell behind Minnesota 15-5 early and trailed 32-21 at halftime. Izzo noted similar slow starts in the Spartans' previous two games against Michigan and Rutgers. The coach said he was "really disappointed" in his upperclassmen and took responsibility as the coach for not getting the team ready to play. Izzo emphasized the need for his players to have a "gut check" in order to address the team's problems.

  • Michigan State trailed Michigan 15-5 and 20-7 in the early going.
  • Michigan State trailed 21-13 and 29-18 at Rutgers on Jan. 27.
  • Michigan State fell behind 15-5 in the opening minutes against Minnesota on Feb. 5.

The players

Tom Izzo

The head coach of the Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team, known for his intense coaching style and success in leading the program to multiple Big Ten titles and Final Four appearances.

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What they’re saying

“I can't figure out why we started out so poorly. Really disappointed in my upperclassmen and the coach because the coach has to get a team ready and it's been three games in a row now that we have not been there at the beginning.”

— Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State Spartans (on3.com)

What’s next

Izzo and the Spartans will look to address the team's slow starts and defensive issues in practice ahead of their next game against a ranked opponent.

The takeaway

Izzo's public criticism of his team's effort and focus highlights the urgency for Michigan State to correct their early-game struggles and defensive lapses in order to remain competitive in the Big Ten and secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament. The Spartans' veteran leadership will be crucial in responding to Izzo's challenge and regaining their identity as a tough, defensive-minded team.