Izzo Reveals Suns Job Talks, Stays at Michigan State

East Lansing, Mich. Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo disclosed Wednesday that he engaged in serious discussions last year about taking the head coaching position with the NBA's Phoenix Suns, a team owned by his former player Mat Ishbia, before ultimately deciding to remain with the Spartans.

The 71-year-old Hall of Famer, who has led Michigan State since 1995, shared the details during a virtual appearance on The Dan Patrick Show from his campus office. "We talked seriously about it," Izzo said, noting the opportunity was difficult to decline. Ishbia, a walk-on guard on Michigan State's 2000 national championship team, purchased the Suns in 2023 and reached out to Izzo following the firing of coach Mike Budenholzer after a 36-46 season.

Izzo cited two main factors in his consideration: his close relationship with Ishbia and broader frustrations with the evolving landscape of college athletics. He has been vocal about challenges in the sport, including changes affecting coaches and players. "I don't like what's going on in college athletics," Izzo said, adding that most football and basketball coaches share similar sentiments. Despite the appeal, Izzo extended his...