Applaud Izzo for sticking to his roots

Tom Izzo’s decision to remain with Michigan State is contradictory to what many coaches and players have done recently in pro sports. Instead of cashing a big(er) payday, with at least an outside chance of coaching LeBron James, Izzo stuck to his state roots and the program he’s led to six Final Fours. The Detroit Free Press said Izzo's decision was a win for the state.

“For a state that has lost so much and so many in recent years," the staff wrote in an editorial, "it's a blessed relief to win one. Even some fans at rival University of Michigan had to smile for the home state, even if Izzo's teams have generally been masters of the Maize and Blue during his 15 seasons as head coach of the Spartans.
With 13 straight appearances in the NCAA tournament, six trips to the Final Four and one national championship, Izzo is among the best -- many would say is the best -- at what he does. He has no worlds left to conquer at the college level.”

In interviews after he announced the decision, Izzo also admitted to flirting with the job because of the money, which is something coaches rarely say. Izzo has always been easy to root for and, even with his consistent success, has stayed clear of the NCAA infractions police. In the same week that college football revealed its dark (money) side, it’s nice to see one of the best active college basketball coaches remain with a blue chip program.