Tom Izzo, the renowned head coach of Michigan State’s men’s basketball team and Naismith Hall of Famer, is not only a coaching legend — he’s also the proud father of two children who have both carved out their own meaningful paths within the Spartan community. Here’s an in-depth look at his daughter Raquel (“Rocky”) and son Steven.
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🧡 Raquel “Rocky” Izzo McDonald (born 1994)
Early life & education
Raquel “Rocky” Izzo, born in August 1994, was the first child of Tom and Lupe Izzo. She grew up under the spotlight as the coach’s daughter, yet clearly relished the challenges and expectations. Tom has said he waited a “long time” for her — and once she arrived, he knew she had “as big a heart as you’ll find” .
College & career
Rocky continued the family legacy, enrolling at Michigan State in 2013 and graduating in 2017. She then took on a role with the Spartan Fund before transitioning in late 2018 to co-found the Izzo Legacy Family Fund with her mother. This initiative channels charitable efforts into the East Lansing community, reflecting the Izzo family’s commitment to giving back .
Personal milestones
In 2019, after dating for three years, she got engaged to Matthew McDonald at Walt Disney World. They secretly married on July 25, 2020, and celebrated with a reception at MSU’s Breslin Center on July 9, 2022 . In July 2023, the couple welcomed their daughter, Isabelle Frances‑Izzo McDonald — and Tom celebrated his new role as “grandpa” .
Family bond
Rocky is openly devoted to her parents. In a 2020 birthday tribute, she called Tom “the first man to ever love me” and praised his integrity, familial devotion, and work ethic . She’s also echoed her father’s words about helping others “live their dream because so many people helped you live yours” .
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💚 Steven Mateen Izzo (born June 16, 2000)
Adoption & upbringing
Steven was adopted by Tom and Lupe just four days after his birth in June 2000 . His middle name, Mateen, honors MSU great Mateen Cleaves — a player Tom greatly admires .
High school & personality
Steven grew up in East Lansing, attending Lansing Catholic High School, where he earned two varsity letters in basketball . Described by his dad as “compassionate” and “a straight shooter,” Steven has always stayed grounded despite growing up in the shadow of a high-profile dad .
Spartan player
Following his sister’s footsteps, Steven enrolled at MSU in 2019 and walked on to the men’s basketball team. Coach Izzo supported his pursuit: “if I did my job in school and on the court, he’d have a spot” . Over five seasons, he appeared in 43 games — often limited minutes, but filled with heart. By his senior year, he’d become an Academic All-Big Ten and earned the Spartan Academic Excellence award .
Milestone moments
One of Steven’s most unforgettable moments came when he scored his first collegiate points — a celebratory dunk against Rutgers that rocked the Breslin Center . His reaction? Iconic: Tom paused his post-game interview to celebrate with him, calling it something he’d “never done in a while” — savoring “father‑son time” he’d missed for years .
Senior Night
Senior Night 2024 was emotional for both Izzos. Tom, with tears in his eyes, expressed that there’s “nothing better” than having your child on your team . Steven echoed his gratitude:
> “I’m just so thankful that he allowed me to walk-on five years ago … it’s been the greatest decision I ever made … and I’m so grateful to be able to do it with you.”
Life beyond hoops
Steven majored in advertising management, plans to pursue a role in the NBA — possibly general manager someday — and his favorite NFL team is the Baltimore Ravens. He shares a playful nickname, “Steve‑O,” and even once wrote a poem that earned him a “World’s Greatest Dad” trophy .
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🏀 A Foundation Built on Family
At his 2016 Hall of Fame induction, Tom made it clear: beyond the titles and tournament runs, his greatest pride is his family. He spoke of Rocky’s immense heart and the priceless “father‑son moments” he shares with Steven .
Despite the spotlight, Rocky and Steven have carved distinct identities. Rocky is making a meaningful social impact through her fund and motherhood, while Steven achieved his dream of playing Spartan ball — turning a coach’s son into one of his team’s own. In their own ways, both embody the dedication, heart, and legacy their father instilled.
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📅 Looking Ahead
Rocky: balancing her role as a new mother with community philanthropy — her Izzo Legacy Family Fund continues to support Lansing-area charities, a legacy-building project she started with her mom .
Steven: as of spring 2025, finishing his Spartan academic journey with his sights set on a career in sports management. If he brings even half the intensity of his walk-on journey, Coach Tom’s influence may yet echo in the NBA front office.
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Over two decades, Tom Izzo has molded champions on the court. But his proudest accomplishments? They’re off the hardwood — in the character and journeys of Rocky and Steven. In this family, legacy isn’t just about victories; it’s about love, resilience, and lifting others — just as Tom has done in everything he coaches and everything his children live by.
