Michigan State's coach Tom Izzo calls out to players during the first half in the game against Bowling Green on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, at the Breslin Center in East Lansing.
EAST LANSING ~ Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo didn’t sugarcoat his team’s performance following Saturday’s win. While he praised the Spartans’ improved defense and rebounding, he admitted there’s plenty of work to do. “We didn’t give up penetration, that was a pleasant surprise,” Izzo said. “But we turned the ball over and didn’t get back on defense at all.” The Spartans held Arkansas to 39% shooting, but seven uncontested layups highlighted lingering issues in transition defense. Offensively, Izzo was blunt: “I’d like to make a shot, you know?” Free throws and turnovers remain major concerns as the team looks to find its rhythm.
Freshman forward Cam Ward and freshman forward Jordan Scott earned high marks for their energy and basketball IQ, impressing Izzo with their ability to impact the game beyond scoring. “Those two did play very well because they just played hard,” he said, noting Ward’s championship pedigree and Scott’s surprising physicality. Still, Izzo cautioned against setting unrealistic expectations after one strong outing. “Nobody walks on water.”
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November 10, 2025 ~ Anthony and Ryan talk about the big win this weekend at the Breslin Center as Tom Izzo and the Spartans took down #14 Arkansas 69-66 in John Calipari’s first visit to East Lansing.
(CONTINUED) Looking ahead, Izzo warned of a potential trap game against San Jose State, sandwiched between marquee matchups. He praised the Spartans’ next opponent for its strong guard play and unique lineup, led by junior guard Colby Garland. “They have some weird matchups,” Izzo said. “Tim Miles is a really good coach and knows our program well.” The Spartans will need to maintain focus and toughness, qualities Izzo admitted were lacking in early games, especially during a humbling loss at UConn. “We weren’t Michigan State tough,” he said. “We got punked out.”
Izzo closed the press conference with perspective beyond basketball, reflecting on Veterans Day and the 50th anniversary of the Edmund Fitzgerald tragedy. He shared memories from his time in the Upper Peninsula and spoke passionately about honoring service members. “This is their special day and I appreciate each and every one of them,” Izzo said, recalling tear-jerking moments from his trips to Kuwait and MSU’s tradition of recognizing the military before every game. For Izzo, it was a reminder that while wins and losses matter, gratitude and toughness on and off the court, define what Michigan State basketball is all about.
