For the first time since 2019 and the 11th time ever, Tom Izzo has led Michigan State to the Elite Eight, beating sixth-seeded Ole Miss on Friday night, 73-70.
The win wasn't easy, however. The Spartans may be dancing on, but Ole Miss had their number early in the game all the way into the second half. The Rebels led the Spartans by two at the half before building a nine-point lead in the second half. Michigan State would chip away at that lead and eventually take one of its own, not looking back in the final two mintues.
Jase Richardson led the way with 20 points and Coen Carr got hot and scored 15.
After the win, Izzo was interviewed with his team behind him on the court and he was almost brought to tears, stating that he loves this team.
When Izzo went back to the post-game presser, his demeanor changed a bit. While he still seemed happy with the win, it was clear that he was nowhere near content with it. He told reporters that banners aren't hung for Elite Eights and that there's still plenty of work to do.
"We don't put up banners for great eights. We put up banners for championships."
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) March 29, 2025
Tom Izzo wants another championship banner 😤 pic.twitter.com/l21r24Ely4
It's hard not to love Izzo. The Hall of Famer has had a great week, starting with defending his team and saying that he wouldn't be touching the portal because he owes this team everything, and it would be cheating them if he was looking into the portal for next year already. He then beat Ole Miss and then had another great press conference, basically saying he won't be happy until more banners are hung.
Izzo is right, too. Why should we be ecstatic over an Elite Eight berth when this should be the expectation for this program?
Win on Sunday and then have a 24-hour celebration period before getting to work on a Final Four matchup potentially with Florida (my prediction).
Having Tom Izzo as a head coach is one of the most comfortable feelings in the world. This is just further proof of that.