Is This a Legacy-Defining Year for Tom Izzo?
Photo via Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
East Lansing, Michigan (PSF) - It’s undeniable that Tom Izzo will go down as one of the best college basketball coaches ever. Izzo’s tenure at Michigan State has solidified his status as a legend in East Lansing. However, this year could be a career-defining season for Izzo and the Spartans.
The Spartans are hungry for more post-season success after recent exits in the Sweet 16 and Round of 32. Their last Final Four appearance came in 2019 before losing to Texas Tech.
Izzo’s last title appearance came in a 2009 loss to North Carolina. The Spartans haven’t won a national championship since 2000.
Tom Izzo desperately needs another championship to bolster his resume among college basketball’s elite, and the 2023 team could be the one to do it.
The Spartans are returning tons of talent this season, including the number five recruiting class in the country. Per Sports Illustrated, their expected starting five will be A.J. Hoggard (Sr PG), Tyson Walker (Graduate SG), Jadin Akins (Jr SF), Malik Hall (Graduate PF), and Jaxon Kohler (SO Center).
The experience of the returning Spartans combined with young talent like five-star center Xavier Booker, four-star point guard Jeremy Fears, and four-star small forward Coen Carr creates an incredible roster for the Spartans.
This is one of the most talented teams Tom Izzo has had since the departure of Cassius Winston and Miles Bridges. Currently, the Spartans are +1800 favorites to win the national championship. Cutting down the nets this year would solidify Izzo’s legacy as “Mr. March” and one of college basketball’s greats.
