[4] In addition, MSU set the Big Ten record for the longest home court winning streak between 1998 and 2002.

Several of these accomplishments led former ESPN analyst Andy Katz to deem Michigan State the top college basketball program for the decade of 1998 to 2007.

[5] Izzo is the longest-tenured coach in the Big Ten Conference and his teams are often recognized for their rebounding prowess and defensive tenacity.

On March 8, 2022, Izzo surpassed Bob Knight for the most wins by a men's basketball coach at a Big Ten school with 663.

[8] Izzo, who is of Italian[9] and Finnish descent, was born and raised in Iron Mountain in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, near the border of Wisconsin.

At Northern Michigan University in Marquette, where they were roommates, Izzo played guard for the men's basketball team from 1973 to 1977.

In his senior season, he set a school record for minutes played and was named a Division II All-American.

Prior to the 1990–91 season, then-coach Jud Heathcote elevated Izzo to associate head coach.

Over the years, Izzo has been pursued by the Atlanta Hawks, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, and New Jersey Nets for head coaching jobs.

In 2013, Izzo was voted as the fifth angriest coach in college basketball by USA Today Sports, an honor that he cherishes.

[17] On November 26, 2015, Izzo won his 500th career game, all with Michigan State, with a win over Boston College in the Wooden Legacy.

Middle Tennessee led from start to finish and held off repeated Michigan State threats to take the lead.

4-ranked Purdue, Izzo tied former Indiana coach Bob Knight for the most wins all-time at a Big Ten school.

[27] On October 13, 2024, Izzo brought the Spartans to his alma mater for an exhibition game against Northern Michigan for a 70–53 win over the Wildcats.

[30] Izzo chose former Maryland head coach Gary Williams to introduce him at the Hall of Fame ceremony.

Izzo is famed for his "war" rebounding drill, in which the players wear football helmets and shoulder pads.