CBS NEWS: East Lansing, MI — Tom Izzo Breaks Big Ten Record, Becomes Most Coveted Coach with Historic Single-Season Win Total
East Lansing, MI – June 26, 2025
In a season that will be remembered for its grit, brilliance, and relentless pursuit of greatness, Michigan State University men’s basketball head coach Tom Izzo has shattered his own Big Ten record, becoming the winningest coach in a single season in conference history.
With the Spartans’ 34th win of the season—a hard-fought 79–72 victory over Ohio State in the Big Ten Tournament Championship—Izzo etched his name once again in the annals of college basketball greatness. The win not only secured Michigan State’s top seed in the NCAA Tournament but also solidified Izzo’s status as the most coveted coach in the nation, respected for both his strategic genius and unwavering commitment to player development.
The Numbers Behind the Glory
The Spartans finished the 2024–25 season with a staggering 34–3 record, including a conference-best 19–1 mark in Big Ten play. The previous record of 33 wins—set by Izzo himself during the 2018–19 season—now sits second behind his own newly set standard.
“We’ve had special teams before,” Izzo said during a postgame interview, his voice choked with emotion. “But this group—this year—was different. They didn’t just buy into the system. They elevated it.”
Izzo credited the leadership of senior guard Jalen Tyson and sophomore forward Malik Resseur, along with a bench that consistently delivered, and a coaching staff that maintained peak performance throughout the rigorous schedule.
Beyond the Bench
The record-breaking season has only increased speculation about Izzo’s long-term future. Rumors continue to swirl that several NBA teams and high-profile programs have approached him with interest, yet Izzo has remained focused and grounded in East Lansing.
“Michigan State is home,” Izzo reaffirmed at the team’s celebration rally on campus. “Every win, every record—this is for our players, for our fans, and for the Spartan family. I’m proud to be here. I’m proud of what we’ve built.”
University President Dr. Elizabeth Cavendish called the milestone “a moment not just for Michigan State, but for college basketball as a whole.”
“Coach Izzo has never chased headlines—he’s chased excellence,” Cavendish said. “And today, excellence has a name. It’s Tom Izzo.”
The Izzo Effect
Over his legendary 30-year tenure, Izzo has taken Michigan State to 9 Final Fours, 1 national championship, and now holds the record for most wins in a season by any Big Ten coach. But beyond the accolades, his legacy is defined by his players’ loyalty, academic achievements, and leadership beyond the court.
Current NBA stars and former players flooded social media with tributes. Draymond Green posted, “Coach made me a man. Today, he makes history again. Forever the GOAT.”
What’s Next?
With the NCAA Tournament just around the corner and momentum on their side, the Spartans are eyeing a deep run—and perhaps one more banner to hang in the Breslin Center rafters.
As the final buzzer rang in Chicago and confetti rained down, one thing became clear: Tom Izzo isn’t just the most decorated coach in the Big Ten—he’s the heartbeat of Spartan basketball.
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