Particle.news
Download on the App Store
14 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

Tom Izzo Rejects Retirement Talk After Sweet 16 Exit

His stance signals an aggressive offseason built on portal additions plus a core of returning players.

Head coach Tom Izzo of the Michigan State Spartans reacts during the second half against the UConn Huskies in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 27, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
Mar 27, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; Michigan State Spartans head coach Tom Izzo reacts in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Image
Head coach Dan Hurley of the UConn Huskies looks on during the first half against the Michigan State Spartans in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 27, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Michigan State, which fell 67-63 to UConn in the Sweet 16 on Friday, heard Izzo say retirement is "sure as hell not going to be now."
  • Izzo said he expects to be trying to win a national championship in five years, framing the loss as a starting point for next season.
  • He outlined roster plans on the spot, expecting seven to eight returners, a strong incoming class, and immediate work in the transfer portal.
  • He praised Dan Hurley’s Huskies and took blame for the Spartans’ slow start, saying the early lull "has to fall on the coach."
  • The 71-year-old finished his 31st season at 27-8 and holds a 764-310 career record with 28 straight NCAA trips, eight Final Fours, and the 2000 title.