Tom Izzo says he will “find a way” to bring another national title to MSU

Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo walks off the court after 67-62 loss to Purdue at the
Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo walks off the court after 67-62 loss to Purdue at the / Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK
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Tom Izzo is one of the greatest college basketball coaches of all time. Nobody in their right mind will deny that. But one thing is still missing that would take him to another level among elite coaches: a second national championship.

It really is quite surprising that Izzo has only brought one title to East Lansing with all the success he’s had. But the reality is that it’s been 24 years since he’s one national championship.

Izzo made an appearance recently on ‘The Drive with Jack’ and was asked if his one national championship still puts a smile on his face 24 years later. Izzo quickly responded, “No, I think it’s too (expletive) long since it’s happened.”

Izzo continued “I am disappointed we knocked on the door more than a few times and haven’t won a second one.”

Michigan State has reached six Final Fours since they won it all in 2000, coming up short in each appearance. They’ve even had some really good teams that could’ve won it all came up short for various reasons. This includes upset losses in 2016 and 2018 as well as COVID ruining any chance for the 2020 team.

But Izzo’s struggles to win a second title haven’t caused him to give up. He said, “That’s probably why I’m still coaching.”

So if you’ve ever wondered if Izzo still cares as much as he has in the past, that should all be put to bed. Izzo’s final remark on this topic eliminates any of those thoughts.

“The job is not done and we’re gonna find a way to get it done.”

I have full faith that Izzo can get there, and I think he’s going to shock us and do it sooner than expected. The last four years have been tough, but I think the program is ready to turn a corner and get back to competing for titles once again.