Tom Izzo is staying at Michigan State, turning down a chance to coach the Cleveland Cavaliers and perhaps LeBron James. In a statement released by the school on Tuesday, Izzo said, "I'm pleased to say I am here for life at Michigan State." For the past nine days, Izzo had been trying to decide whether to leave the place that has been his home since 1983 and jump to the NBA to perhaps make $6 million -- doubling his salary -- and possibly coach one of the best basketball players in the world. "Throughout the entire process, Dan Gilbert and the entire Cleveland organization has been nothing but clbutt. His professionalism and caring nature for me, my family and Michigan State have been impressive. I wish him nothing but the best in his quest to win a world championship," Izzo said in a statement released by the school. "Just as I decided to stay home, I hope a 6-8, 270-pound forward in Cleveland decides to stay home." Source: ESPN
Good move for Izzo. I know 6 million a year but college coaches typically fail in the NBA. Also he's king of the big 10 and one of the top 2 or 3 college coaches. I think this is more than not getting a committment from James.
Yeah, I was surprised to see Izzo's name linked with the Cavs anyway, moreso when he admitted he was considering it.But, I do think the only way he was leaving is with assurance that Lebron would be staying.
