Tom Izzo Named 2025 College Basketball’s Philanthropy Leader: Honored for His Humanitarian Contributions and Lasting Impact
May 4, 2025 — East Lansing, MI
In a momentous recognition that transcends the game of basketball, Michigan State University men’s basketball coach Tom Izzo has been named the 2025 College Basketball’s Philanthropy Leader. Known widely for his championship pedigree and competitive spirit, Izzo is now being celebrated for the profound and enduring impact he has made off the court through his humanitarian work and community engagement.
The award, presented by the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) and the College Basketball Philanthropy Alliance, honors individuals in college basketball whose commitment to social causes, community service, and charitable giving have created lasting change. For Izzo, the accolade is a powerful testament to decades of dedication not only to his players but to the broader community.
“Tom Izzo’s legacy extends beyond the court, defined by the lives he has uplifted and the meaningful difference he continues to make,” said NABC President Derrick Dunbar during the award ceremony held in Indianapolis on Friday evening. “He represents the best of what college athletics can stand for — leadership, compassion, and purpose.”
While his record includes over 700 career wins, a national championship, and a Hall of Fame induction, Izzo’s influence stretches far beyond the hardwood. Over the years, he has championed numerous charitable initiatives, particularly those focused on education, youth development, and cancer research.
His annual “Izzo Legacy Run/Walk/Roll,” founded in 2019 alongside his wife Lupe Izzo, has raised over $3 million for local organizations in Michigan. The event draws thousands of participants every spring and benefits causes ranging from mental health services to childhood literacy and food insecurity.
In addition to his work at the local level, Izzo has been a staunch advocate for student-athletes’ well-being and education. He has partnered with national foundations to fund scholarships for underprivileged youth and has helped launch mentorship programs connecting Spartan athletes with children across Michigan’s public school system.
“Coach Izzo doesn’t just donate — he shows up,” said MSU athletic director Alan Haller. “Whether it’s visiting a local school, helping out at a food bank, or spending time with a sick child, Tom leads with his heart. This recognition is long overdue.”
Izzo’s approach to philanthropy is rooted in a strong belief in the power of community. Raised in the small town of Iron Mountain, Michigan, Izzo often cites his humble upbringing and the support of his tight-knit community as inspirations for his commitment to giving back.
“I’ve always felt that coaching is about more than wins and losses,” Izzo said during his acceptance speech. “It’s about teaching, about building people, and about leaving something better than you found it. This award is really a reflection of all the people I’ve been fortunate to work with and all the communities that have supported me.”
Throughout his 30-year tenure at Michigan State, Izzo has made it a priority to instill similar values in his players. His former athletes, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in the NBA and beyond, frequently cite his emphasis on character, discipline, and community responsibility as defining elements of their time under his leadership.
“Coach always made it clear that we were part of something bigger than ourselves,” said Draymond Green, a former MSU standout and current NBA star. “He taught us to use our platforms for good. Seeing him honored like this is no surprise — it’s who he’s always been.”
As Izzo continues to lead the Spartans on the court, his off-court legacy only grows stronger. With this latest honor, Tom Izzo reaffirms his place not just as one of college basketball’s most respected coaches, but as one of its most compassionate and impactful humanitarians.
And in true Izzo fashion, he ended his speech not by dwelling on his accolades, but by urging others to take action: “If you have a platform, use it. If you have a voice, raise it for others. We all have a role in making things better.”