Campus Mystery: Tom Izzo Statue Found Wearing Rival Michigan Jersey
EAST LANSING, MI — August 7, 2025
A wave of disbelief and outrage swept through Michigan State University early Thursday morning after students discovered the iconic Tom Izzo statue, located outside the Breslin Center, dressed in an unmistakable maize and blue University of Michigan basketball jersey.
The jersey, emblazoned with the number 1 and the name “Howard” — a clear nod to former Wolverines coach Juwan Howard — was tightly wrapped around the bronze likeness of the legendary Spartans basketball coach. Photos of the defaced statue quickly went viral across social media platforms, with hashtags like #IzzoGate, #WolverineInvasion, and #RespectTheLegend trending nationwide by midmorning.
Campus police responded to the scene around 6:30 a.m. after reports from an MSU maintenance worker. The jersey had been secured with zip ties and duct tape, and a small speaker was also found playing “Hail to the Victors” on repeat.
“This is more than just a prank,” said senior athletic administration official Rachel DeVries. “It’s an act of blatant disrespect toward one of the most respected figures in college basketball history and a pillar of our Spartan community.”
No individual or group has claimed responsibility yet, though speculation is rampant that this was the work of Michigan fans, possibly students, ahead of the upcoming football matchup between the two rivals this fall. Campus security footage is currently being reviewed, and MSU police have not ruled out the possibility of criminal charges.
Coach Izzo, known for his fierce loyalty and humor, responded to the incident later that afternoon during a press availability.
“Well, I always said I liked blue… just not that shade,” Izzo joked. “Look, I’ve got thick skin. But I do feel for the students and fans who felt hurt by this. We’ll use it as motivation — like we always do.”
Students on campus had mixed reactions. Some laughed it off as a classic rivalry stunt, while others were visibly angered.
“There are jokes, and then there’s crossing the line,” said MSU sophomore Kylie Martin. “You don’t mess with Izzo. That’s sacred ground.”
Meanwhile, Michigan fans online reveled in the chaos, with some claiming the prank was “legendary” and “long overdue.” Others, however, cautioned that escalating the rivalry with antics like this could invite retaliation — especially with football season around the corner.
The university quickly removed the jersey and is considering installing additional security measures around major campus landmarks. Student leaders are also planning a “Green Out” rally at the statue this weekend to reaffirm Spartan pride and unity.
While this stunt will likely be remembered for years, it also serves as a reminder of the intensity — and sometimes absurdity — of the Michigan–Michigan State rivalry. One thing is certain: when the Spartans and Wolverines next meet on the court or the field, emotions will be running higher than ever.
“Rivalries are fun,” Izzo concluded. “But make no mistake — we remember.”