Michigan State made Tom Izzo the highest-paid basketball coach in the Big Ten on Friday, boosting his annual salary to about $7.2 million.
The school’s board of trustees approved the $1 million raise in Izzo’s five-year contract, which automatically renews annually.
“Coach Izzo is the ultimate Spartan — someone whose work ethic and devotion to our student-athletes, this university and the broader MSU community are unmatched,” Michigan State president Kevin M. Guskiewicz said. “We believe deeply in his ability to uphold our values, develop champions, and continue building one of college basketball’s premier programs.”
Izzo, 70, is in his 31st season with the ninth-ranked Spartans (8-1, 1-0 Big Ten). He is the winningest coach in Big Ten history, compiling a 745-303 record with zero losing seasons since taking over in East Lansing in 1995-96.
“Coach Izzo is one of the greatest coaches in the history of college athletics,” athletic director J Batt said. “His list of championships and honors is amazing, but his true legacy will be the impact he’s had, first and foremost, on his student-athletes, as well as Spartans everywhere. He cares deeply about our University and our community, and is always willing to do whatever is asked of him to advance MSU.”
Izzo has guided Michigan State to 27 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, reaching the Final Four eight times and winning the national championship in 2000.
“I’m incredibly appreciative of the continued support from the Board of Trustees, President Guskiewicz and AD Batt,” Izzo aid. “With strong leadership and positive momentum throughout the University and the department, the pieces are in place for sustained success, and I’m as energized as ever to chase championships. We’re going to keep working tirelessly to make all Spartans proud.”
Izzo has collected eight national Coach of the Year awards and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.
–Field Level Media
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