Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo received a $1 million raise to his five-year contract that automatically renews annually, a move that makes him the highest-paid coach in the Big Ten at approximately $7.2 million per year. The university’s board of trustees approved the amendment Friday, recognizing Izzo’s Hall of Fame resume and the program’s pursuit of continued success.
“I’m incredibly appreciative of the continued support from the Board of Trustees, President (Kevin) Guskiewicz and AD (J) Batt,” Izzo said in a statement. “With strong leadership and positive momentum throughout the University and the department, the pieces are in place for sustained success, and I’m as energized as ever to chase championships. We’re going to keep working tirelessly to make all Spartans proud.”
The contract adjustment comes during Izzo’s 31st season at Michigan State, where he has built one of the most consistent programs in college basketball. He owns a career record of 745-303, making him the winningest coach in Big Ten history.
Michigan State leadership described the contract amendment as both recognition of Izzo’s legacy and a statement of long-term commitment to the program’s competitive standards.
“Coach Izzo is the ultimate Spartan — someone whose work ethic and devotion to our student-athletes, this university, and the broader MSU community are unmatched,” Guskiewicz said, adding that the university remains confident in his leadership and ability to “continue building one of college basketball’s premier programs.”
Batt highlighted Izzo’s resume while underscoring the department’s commitment to sustaining championship-level standards.
“Coach Izzo is one of the greatest coaches in the history of college athletics,” Batt said. “His list of championships and honors is amazing, but his true legacy will be the impact he’s had, first and foremost, on his student-athletes, as well as Spartans everywhere.”
MSU is ranked ninth nationally with an 8-1 record, continuing a run of sustained success under Izzo. His teams have reached the Final Four eight times and captured the 2000 NCAA National Championship, while qualifying for the NCAA Tournament in 27 consecutive seasons after missing the field in each of his first two years. Izzo’s resume also includes 11 regular-season Big Ten titles and six Big Ten tournament championships, with his eight Final Four appearances ranking fifth all-time and the most among active coaches.
Inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016, Izzo remains a central figure in college basketball. The contract amendment ensures continuity for Michigan State as it navigates an evolving college athletics landscape.
