Tom Izzo’s unwavering support for Detroit’s professional sports teams is more than just an expression of fandom. His passion for these teams is deeply rooted in his identity as a proud Michigan native
Whether he’s cheering for the Pistons, Lions, or Tigers, Izzo’s enthusiasm reflects his belief that the success of these teams has a broader impact on the state of Michigan.
For Izzo, supporting Michigan sports is about more than just winning games—it’s about fostering a sense of pride and unity within the community.
With Jordan Scott on board, Michigan State is well-positioned to continue its success in the years to come. The Spartans have consistently been one of the top programs in the country under Tom Izzo, and Scott’s commitment is a sign that the program’s future remains bright.
As the 2024-25 season approaches, the Spartans will continue to focus on developing their current roster while also looking ahead to the future with Scott and the rest of the 2025 recruiting class.
Tom Izzo’s ability to balance the present and the future has been a hallmark of his career. While the focus is currently on winning now, Izzo’s commitment to building a strong foundation for the future ensures that Michigan State will remain a national contender for years to come.
Also Read: Tom Izzo’s NCAA Tournaments Record: Net Worth, Career, Earnings, Ethnicity And More Explained
Table of Contents
Tom Izzo: Supporter of Michigan and Detroit Sports Teams
Tom Izzo, head coach of Michigan State Spartans men’s basketball, has made a name for himself not only as a legendary college basketball coach but also as a staunch supporter of Michigan’s professional sports teams.1
Over the years, Izzo has shown his pride for the Detroit-based teams across various major sports leagues, including the NBA, NFL, and MLB.
Whether it’s cheering for the Pistons in basketball, rooting for the Lions in football, or standing behind the Tigers in baseball, Izzo’s loyalty to his home state is evident. His love for Michigan sports highlights his connection to the community and his desire to see the state and its teams succeed.
You can’t become the best over night. It takes lots of time and hard work.
— Tom Izzo (@MSUtomIzzo) July 25, 2014
Giving Back to Northern Michigan
Speaking about the upcoming exhibition game, Izzo expressed his excitement, noting how important it is for him to return to where his basketball journey began. “I see where those guys were from.
They never go where I’m from. And now, they’re going to get a chance, and maybe that helps them understand me a little bit better,” Izzo said, referring to his team.
This exhibition game is more than just a basketball contest for Izzo; it’s a homecoming of sorts. By bringing his highly regarded Michigan State team to Northern Michigan, Izzo is offering a valuable experience for both his players and the fans of Northern Michigan.
It’s an opportunity for his team to gain insight into the journey of their coach, while the people of Northern Michigan get to witness high-level college basketball in their backyard.
Izzo’s commitment to giving back is evident in this gesture, and it highlights his belief in the importance of community and mentorship. His career, built on these principles, has helped solidify his place as one of college basketball’s most respected figures.
Tom Izzo and His Love for Detroit Sports
When asked about which Detroit-based sports team holds a special place in his heart, Izzo quickly pointed to the NBA’s Detroit Pistons, three-time NBA champions.2
His admiration for the Pistons reflects a deep sense of state pride and a shared history with the city. While Izzo has also been a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, due to his roots in Iron Mountain, Michigan, he admitted that it’s hard not to root for the Detroit Lions, Michigan’s own NFL team.
In a recent interview, Izzo said:
“Pistons, I always pull (for them), (I’ve been) a Packer fan my whole life, but it’s hard not to pull for the Lions,” he stated. “When in Rome, do like the Romans. So, I’ve become a Pistons fan. I want them to win.
I believe anybody in our state that wins helps our state — almost anybody — but does help our state. And when the state’s better, we’re all better.”
Izzo’s statement reveals that his support goes beyond mere fandom. For him, the success of Detroit’s teams is closely linked to the morale and pride of Michigan residents. When Michigan-based teams win, the positive effects are felt across the state, and Izzo sees this as a unifying factor that brings people together.
Detroit Pistons: A Team Close to Izzo’s Heart
The Detroit Pistons have long been a symbol of resilience and toughness in the NBA. With their hard-nosed style of play, famously embodied by the “Bad Boys” era of the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Pistons represent a blue-collar mentality that aligns with Izzo’s own coaching philosophy at Michigan State.
This likely explains why Izzo feels a special connection to the Pistons. He has often praised the Pistons’ legacy and their ability to overcome adversity, qualities that he instills in his own players.
Izzo’s relationship with the Pistons is not just a fan-coach dynamic. Over the years, he has been linked to the franchise as a potential head coaching candidate, particularly during times when the team was searching for leadership. While Izzo ultimately chose to remain at Michigan State, his deep-rooted admiration for the Pistons is unmistakable.
Tom Izzo: Supporting the Detroit Lions
Although Izzo has long supported the Green Bay Packers, his home state ties have recently made it hard for him not to root for the Detroit Lions.3
The Lions, a team historically known for its struggles in the NFL, have garnered a renewed sense of hope with emerging talents and a determined fanbase. As the Lions aim to turn the tide and become competitive, Izzo has started to shift some of his allegiance to the team.
His willingness to cheer for the Lions, despite his longstanding connection to the Packers, is a testament to Izzo’s love for Michigan as a whole. He recognizes the importance of supporting local teams and understands that their success can uplift the entire state.
For someone like Izzo, who has built his career in Michigan, seeing the Lions succeed would be a personal victory, reflecting the resilience and passion of the state’s sports culture.
Michigan State Spartans’ Connection to Detroit
- The connection between Michigan State University (MSU) and Detroit’s professional sports teams runs deep.
- As the head coach of the Spartans, Izzo has often collaborated with the Pistons, Lions, and Tigers in various community and charity events.
- This relationship is mutually beneficial, as both Michigan State athletics and Detroit sports franchises share the goal of inspiring local communities and providing positive role models for the next generation of athletes.
- One prime example of this collaboration is Izzo’s presence at Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers.
- Recently, Izzo and his Michigan State team were at the park to watch the Tigers win Game 3 of their American League Division Series against the Cleveland Indians.
- Izzo’s presence at such events not only shows his personal commitment to supporting local teams but also strengthens the bond between Michigan State and the broader Detroit sports landscape.
- Izzo has also been vocal about the importance of these professional teams performing well, noting that their success helps boost the morale of everyone in the state.
- “When the state’s better, we’re all better,” he said, reinforcing his belief in the role that sports play in the community.
Preparing for the 2024-25 College Basketball Season
As the Michigan State Spartans gear up for the upcoming 2024-25 college basketball season, Izzo’s commitment to his alma mater remains strong.
The team is preparing for what promises to be a challenging season ahead, but Izzo is confident in his squad’s ability to compete at the highest level.
One of the highlights of their preseason preparations is an exhibition game against Northern Michigan, Izzo’s alma mater, in Marquette, Michigan.
This matchup is significant not only because it serves as a tune-up for the Spartans but also because it allows Izzo to give back to his roots. Northern Michigan played a crucial role in shaping Izzo’s coaching philosophy, and this exhibition game provides him with an opportunity to honor that connection.
Also Read: AJ Dybantsa on the All-Time Best Basketball Players: Rapid-Fire Quiz Highlights
Tom Izzo Secures First Commitment for the 2025-26 Season
Michigan State basketball and its head coach, Tom Izzo, continue to build for the future, securing their first commitment for the 2025-26 season.
Izzo, one of college basketball’s most respected and experienced coaches, landed a highly sought-after recruit in Jordan Scott, a four-star forward from Reston, Virginia.
The decision marks an early victory for Michigan State in what promises to be a competitive recruiting cycle, positioning the Spartans as a force for years to come.
Tom Izzo’s Recruiting Strategy: Building for the Future
Tom Izzo has always been known for his keen eye for talent and his ability to recruit players who fit into his system.
With Jordan Scott now committed, Izzo will look to build on this momentum as he continues to target other top recruits for the 2025 class. While Scott is the first player to commit, he certainly won’t be the last, as Michigan State remains in the mix for several high-profile recruits.
For Izzo, recruiting isn’t just about landing the highest-ranked players. It’s about finding players who buy into the Spartan way—players who are tough, coachable, and willing to put in the work on both ends of the floor. Scott, with his work ethic and willingness to defend, fits that mold perfectly.
Tom Izzo: Legacy on Recruiting
Tom Izzo’s legacy as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history plays a huge role in his success on the recruiting trail.
With over 25 years at the helm of Michigan State, Izzo has built a program known for its toughness, discipline, and success on the national stage.
His ability to develop players, not just into college stars but into NBA-ready prospects, makes Michigan State an attractive destination for recruits.
For players like Jordan Scott, the chance to be coached by Izzo is a dream come true. Izzo’s track record of producing NBA talent, including Draymond Green, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Gary Harris, resonates with recruits who have professional aspirations.
His deep understanding of the game and his commitment to player development continue to make Michigan State a top destination for elite talent.
Competing Against Top Programs: Michigan State’s Recruiting Success
- Landing Jordan Scott was no easy feat for Michigan State, as they had to fend off competition from other top programs, including Maryland and Virginia Tech.
- Both schools made strong pitches to Scott, with Maryland offering the chance to stay closer to home and Virginia Tech providing a clear path to early playing time.
- However, Michigan State’s tradition of excellence, combined with Izzo’s legendary status, proved too strong for the other programs to overcome.
- Scott’s decision to commit to the Spartans is a testament to the program’s enduring appeal and its ability to compete with other powerhouse schools in the recruiting arena.
- Jordan Scott’s commitment to Michigan State marks the beginning of what promises to be another strong recruiting class for Tom Izzo and the Spartans. With his combination of size, skill, and versatility, Scott has the potential to make an immediate impact in East Lansing.
- For Michigan State fans, the future looks bright as Izzo continues to recruit and develop players who can compete at the highest level. With Scott leading the way, the Spartans are well on their way to sustaining their success for years to come.
Also Read: Tom Izzo (Head Coach Of MSU Spartans): Meet Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award Winner
