Tom Izzo reveals why he turned down an NBA job last year

2026-04-01 · Yahoo Sports

Tom Izzo reveals why he turned down an NBA job last year originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Tom Izzo acknowledged he seriously considered leaving college basketball for the NBA last year. During an interview with Dan Patrick on Wednesday, Izzo explained why he ultimately turned down the opportunity to remain at Michigan State.

Izzo revealed he had discussions about a potential move to the NBA, including strong interest tied to the Phoenix Suns. The Hall of Fame coach said the opportunity was difficult to pass up, particularly given his relationship with Suns owner Mat Ishbia, a former Spartans player.

“We talked seriously about it,” Izzo said. “That was hard. I kind of wanted to go with him.”

Michigan State HC Tom Izzo reveals he was in talks with the Phoenix #Suns:

"I've had more than a couple job offers in the NBA, looked at one last year with Phoenix – my former player Mat Ishbia. That was hard, that was a hard thing to turn down... we talked seriously about it." pic.twitter.com/kjSIJreIWz
— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) April 1, 2026

Izzo, 71, has been linked to NBA openings but has remained a fixture in college basketball, leading Michigan State to a national championship and multiple Final Four appearances over the years. While the NBA opportunity was on the table, his loyalty to MSU won out.

At the same time, Izzo did not hide his frustration with the current landscape of college athletics. The rapid changes in the NIL era has been overwhelming to many.

“I don’t like what’s going on in college athletics,” Izzo said. “By the way, neither do 99.8 percent of the football and basketball coaches in America.”

Right now, Izzo's goal is chasing another championship. “I’ll just keep plucking along and see if I can get to a Final Four again," he added.

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