Tom Izzo is arguably the most famous Yooper of all time.
The Michigan State University men's basketball coach was born and raised in Iron Mountain, played basketball for Northern Michigan University and went on to coach the Spartans to several NCAA Final Four appearances and a national title.
When the idea of Izzo leaving for the NBA came about, it was saddening to think he may leave. When he decided to stay, calling himself a "lifer," it reminded us all why we cheer for him so much.
Excerpt from the Detroit News:
He called himself a lifer the other night when he ended the Cleveland Cavaliers' nine-day pursuit and disclosed he would turn down the dough and stay at Michigan State. He did some soul-searching -- he owed himself the right to mull over the offer in whatever privacy was possible -- and then displayed his soul.
He would be loyal to the athletes he had recruited to Michigan State. He would obey his commitment. He would refuse to break his contract. He would be faithful to his roots, his upbringing, his beliefs.
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Source: Detroit News
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