Michigan State Basketball: Tom Izzo doesn’t mince words at Big Ten Media Day
Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo silenced the doubt surrounding his program and the way he’s handled internal issues.
Listening to Tom Izzo struggle through post-game interviews filled with tough questions that surrounding his handling of certain issues within his program last season was rough. The normally well-spoken Hall of Fame head coach had gone from smooth talker to king of the “no comment” phrase.
Though he didn’t do himself many favors with how he handled the questions from the media, he also couldn’t publicly discuss matters — those were his marching orders.
Izzo was criticized heavily for his handling of both the media and presumed mishandling of internal program matters, but he didn’t mince his words at Big Ten Media Days on Thursday as it seemed as if he was finally allowed to let loose.
Tom Izzo said the "lowest point in my life" was being in a picture on ESPN with Mark Dantonio and "a pedophile" Larry Nassar.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 11, 2018
This is exactly what you want to hear from the head coach who came off as “cold” when dealing with questions about Larry Nassar.
Next came questions about his program.
Izzo on allegations of sexual assault in program: "The thought that I tried to cover up and hide something like that makes me sick."
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) October 11, 2018
Another reason to be happy with the statement is the fact that he would never cover anything up that would hurt himself, the player or the program. He also stated that he’s kicked kids off for drugs and academics so he’s “insulted” that people believe he wouldn’t kick someone off for sexual assault or cover it up.
Lastly, of course, the pay-for-play question arose.
Izzo on having MSU mentioned in positive light during federal corruption trial: "I don’t feel vindicated. We shouldn't be commended for doing what we're supposed to do."
— Matt Charboneau (@mattcharboneau) October 11, 2018
Not celebrating being clean is a classy move because he actually doesn’t see a big deal in doing things the right way. This is a classic Izzo quote.
Next. Top 25 MSU football players of Mark Dantonio era. dark
Things seem to be headed in the right direction with the Michigan State basketball program and Izzo may have learned from his mistakes in 2017-18.