Michigan State HC Reveals Reason Behind Turning Down NBA Job

The main reason for this offer was Izzo’s strong connection with Suns owner Mat Ishbia. Ishbia is a fellow Michigan native and a former Michigan State guard. He played under Izzo from 1999 to 2002 and was part of the 2000 national championship team.

During his chat session with Patrick, Izzo openly criticized the current state of NIL deals and tampering. He noted that power has shifted too much toward the players. “I don’t like what’s going on in college athletics.” Still, that frustration could not break his loyalty to his school. 

While the modern college game almost pushed him out the door, his decision to reject the NBA is just the latest chapter in a long history of loyalty.

Tom Izzo Has Been Rejecting NBA Offers Since Decades

Izzo has openly acknowledged receiving “more than a couple” NBA offers over his long career. He has also been linked to other teams, like the Chicago Bulls, in the past.

Right after winning the national title in 2000, the Atlanta Hawks came calling. They offered Izzo a $15 million contract to take over their team. However, he turned the money down to stay with his “great bunch of guys” at Michigan State.

A decade later, in 2010, the Cleveland Cavaliers tried to pull him away. They offered him a massive five-year, $30 million deal. He interviewed for the job but ultimately turned it down. A major factor was that he was not allowed to speak directly with superstar LeBron James, who soon left for Miami.

Izzo is the clear exception in a sport where coaches constantly try to find the next best thing. What do you think about him turning down the Phoenix Suns’ offer last year to stay at Michigan State?