Tom Izzo calls for “respect” against Michigan

As the Michigan State Spartans prepare one of their biggest games of the season, Tom Izzo he leaned into the heart of what makes the rivalry with the Michigan Wolverines so enduring — emotion, history and, above all, respect.

Speaking to reporters ahead of No. 7 Michigan State’s clash with No. 3 Michigan, Izzo was candid about the intensity of the rivalry, acknowledging both the animosity and mutual admiration that has evolved over time. The longtime coach of the Spartans spoke known expectation that he should openly despise the Wolverines, relying on his trademark honesty.

“You guys are great too, because every year you want me to tell you how much I hate them. So I’m going to say it again. I hate them. Of course I hate them. They hate us,” Izzo said, via Owen Ozust of WILKS News 10, before turning to the deeper meaning of the rivalry.

Izzo explained that earlier in his career he allowed resentment to cloud his judgment, something he believes cost him professionally. Although he made it clear that he did not want to like a rival, he emphasized that respect is non-negotiable.

“You think I’m getting Valentine’s Day cards or birthday cards? That’s right, guys,” Izzo added. “It’s no different in America. But, the key word is respect. And I respect them a lot. So that’s all that matters. When I die, I don’t care if somebody likes me or not. I don’t care if they respect me. That’s how I look at rivalries. I had my time when I hated them and I didn’t respect them, so it was getting smarter when my day came. like your rival, it’s time to go out in any sport, but if the day comes when you don’t respect your rivals, shame on you, I also have great respect for them and what they have achieved and what they do, but so does my team.

“Of course I hate them (Michigan). They hate us. The key word is ‘respect,’ and I have a lot of respect for them.”

Tom Izzo talked about Michigan State’s rivalry game with Michigan. @vilkTV pic.twitter.com/pkpRbk1I3v

— Owen Oszust (@Owen_Oszust) January 29, 2026

The comments came as Michigan State enters the match on a seven-game winning streak, including a tough 79-88 overtime escape against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. In that game, Jeremy Fears Jr., Cohen Carr and Dwayne Ugochukwu all missed moments late, though the performance suggested the Spartans may have had a sneak peek into Friday’s matchup.

Last season, Michigan State swept the series, highlighted by a dominant Senior Day win. This year, both teams sit at or near the top of the Big Ten. Adding another layer, Friday marks Izzo’s 71st birthday — and history suggests it could matter, as he’s 7-1 on his birthday.