–Tom Izzo Opens Up About Retirement: “I Still Have the Fire”

 

Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo recently addressed growing curiosity around his retirement plans, making it clear that while the topic is on his mind, he’s not ready to walk away just yet.

 

Now 70 years old and entering his 30th season at the helm of the Spartans, Izzo shared that he still feels energized by coaching. “I still have the fire,” he said in a recent interview, affirming that passion, not age, will ultimately determine when he steps down.

 

Izzo emphasized he won’t orchestrate a grand farewell tour like some coaches have in the past. Instead, he plans to quietly leave when the time feels right—much like former Alabama football coach Nick Saban or Villanova’s Jay Wright. “When it’s time, I’ll know. I’m not into long goodbyes,” he noted.

 

While his love for the game remains strong, Izzo did mention challenges that could push him toward retirement. Chief among them are the sweeping changes in college basketball, particularly the rise of the transfer portal and the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era. “If I get sick of that, that’s what would get me out,” Izzo admitted, acknowledging how these shifts have altered the traditional coaching dynamic.

 

Despite the challenges, Izzo is optimistic about Michigan State’s future. He’s particularly excited about coaching Jase Richardson, son of Spartan great Jason Richardson, which gives him an extra incentive to stay engaged.

 

As for his successor, Izzo didn’t name names but hinted that former Spartan stars like Mateen Cleaves, Steve Smith, Draymond Green, or even Magic Johnson could one day be involved in maintaining the program’s legacy. His top priority is preserving the culture he’s built over nearly three decades.

 

In 2022, Izzo signed a rolling five-year contract that includes a post-retirement advisory role. Once he does step away from coaching, he’ll still be involved with Michigan State, helping with fundraising and community outreach as a special advisor to the athletic department.

 

For now, though, Izzo remains focused on the present. “I still love what I do,” he said. As long as that remains true, the legendary coach isn’t going anywhere just yet.