Meet Tom Izzo’s 2 Kids! All About the Michigan State Coach’s Daughter Raquel and Son Steven
Tom Izzo, the legendary Michigan State men’s basketball coach, is best known for his fiery sideline demeanor, Final Four appearances, and national championship pedigree. But off the court, Izzo embraces an equally passionate role: being a devoted husband and father. Alongside his wife, Lupe Izzo, Tom has two children—daughter Raquel and son Steven—who have grown up surrounded by the green and white spirit of Spartan Nation.
Raquel Izzo: The Private and Independent Spirit
Raquel Izzo, Tom’s only daughter, has largely chosen a life away from the media spotlight. While she hasn’t pursued a career in sports like her father, Raquel has been an ever-present source of pride for Tom and Lupe. Known for her warm personality and sense of independence, Raquel attended Michigan State University and has been involved in philanthropic efforts around the East Lansing area.
Over the years, Tom has spoken about the importance of instilling strong values in his children, including humility, gratitude, and hard work—traits he believes Raquel embodies. “Raquel has always had a mind of her own,” Tom once shared in an interview. “She’s got this quiet strength about her that reminds me of her mom. She’s made her own path, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Raquel has occasionally made public appearances with her father at MSU-related events, but she tends to keep a low profile and focus on her personal passions and professional endeavors.
Steven Izzo: Following Dad’s Footsteps
If Raquel has chosen a path away from basketball, Steven Izzo has done the opposite. Born in 2000, Steven grew up in the shadow of Spartan Stadium and the Breslin Center, idolizing his father and the program he built. He joined the Michigan State basketball team in 2019 as a walk-on guard, making headlines not for his stats but for the story behind his presence.
Steven’s decision to play under his father was not taken lightly. Both Tom and Steven have shared how it was important for Steven to earn his spot and not be handed special treatment. Standing at 5-foot-8, Steven isn’t the prototypical Big Ten player, but his work ethic and passion for the game made him a beloved figure among teammates and fans alike.
“It’s been the greatest joy of my life to coach my son,” Tom said during Steven’s senior season. “Not because of what he does on the court, but because I get to see him grow as a man every day.”
Steven graduated from Michigan State in 2023 and has expressed interest in coaching or staying involved in basketball in some capacity. Whether he follows his father into a coaching career remains to be seen, but the bond they share—built on trust, love, and countless hours in the gym—is undeniable.
A Family Rooted in Spartan Pride
Tom and Lupe Izzo have created a home built on values that extend beyond basketball. Through Raquel and Steven, the Izzos have stayed grounded despite the spotlight that comes with coaching at one of college basketball’s top programs.
Whether courtside or behind the scenes, the Izzo children are a reminder that, for Tom, family is always the championship that matters most.
