MSU's Tom Izzo tests positive for COVID-19

Michigan Public | By Steve Carmody

Published November 9, 2020 at 6:02 PM EST

Michigan State University Men's Basketball coach Tom Izzo (File photo)

Michigan State University’s legendary men’s basketball coach Tom Izzo has tested positive for COVID-19.

Izzo says he tested positive for the disease Monday. The coach says he has minor symptoms, but remains in "good health."

Izzo says he doesn’t know where he could have been exposed to the virus.

“I think I’ve been as diligent as anybody,” Izzo told reporters during a late Monday afternoon Zoom conference. “It even tells you more how serious maybe even the virus is.”

State health officials reported more than 9,000 confirmed new COVID-19 cases in Michigan Monday, that number reflects test results from Sunday and Monday.

Tom Izzo has been among the highest profile supporters in Michigan of wearing a mask as a precaution against COVID-19. He appeared in a widely seen public service TV ad with coaches of other MSU and University of Michigan sports programs.

Izzo says he remains an advocate for wearing masks and social distancing during the pandemic despite his positive test.

“Just got to stick to the protocol and hope for the best,” says Izzo. “I’m going to continue to do what I got to do and continue to be an advocate like I’ve been.”

Izzo’s positive test comes as his MSU Spartans are preparing for a basketball season that remains uncertain.

Earlier Monday, U of M Men’s Basketball Coach Juwan Howard met with reporters over a Zoom conference. He admits he’s preparing his team for an uncertain season.

“COVID is winning,” says Howard. “The only thing I know is December 9 it’s been announced we’re going to play North Carolina State.”

For his part, Tom Izzo says he plans to spend the next 10 days at home recuperating and watching film, as he and the Spartans prep for the upcoming season.

“Whoever wins the Big Ten....who ever does well this year, is going to have to do it by handling all these adverse things. And nothing more adverse than COVID,” says Izzo.

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