Spartan Hoopla: Tom Izzo Tossed Into NBA Coaching Merry-Go-Round

With the LeBron James fiasco beamed on every sports-related channel, there are bound to be side conversations to accompany the two-time MVP's media melee.

How will James fit in Chicago, New York, New Jersey, or Miami?

Or will he stay put in Cleveland?

Those thoughts are being entertained by any sports fan with a pulse right now.

James has to strengthen his brand, we've been told. He must solidify himself as one of the NBA's greats by winning a title.

It's been rumored that James was a factor in brooming former coach Mike Brown out of town, and that ownership wanted to do everything humanly possible to keep "The Chosen One" content. 

So what about snagging a reputable coach?

On Monday, ESPN's Chris Broussard tossed a familiar name into Cleveland's search for a new head man.

It seems that whenever a high-profile basketball coaching job, pro or collegiate, is available, Tom Izzo's name pops up.

It's hard for teams not to consider a man that built a program. Izzo inherited the Spartans from his mentor Jud Heathcote in 1995. Heatcote experienced greatness a decade-and-a-half earlier with Magic Johnson and Greg Kelser. He started the legend, Izzo cemented it.

The idea of a young assistant taking over for a legend was one that was met with unsure, but willing supporters.

Five years later, Izzo was cutting down the nets with the Flintstones.

His reputation is well known.

His resume is impecable.

Is it a surprise that he's one of the most sought after coaches in the game?

Spartan fans have been spoiled by the man that does more with less. Izzo doesn't get the big names that other schools get. But he knows how to direct his talent, and that's what has made him worth his weight in gold.

He just knows the Xs and Os.

This spring, Oregon reportedly expressed interest in Mr. March. Izzo dismissed the idea with well spoken, but reassuring, denial.

"I haven't been contacted," Izzo told ESPN in March.

"The truth of the matter, whenever you have success, you get to be one of 10 names that pop up on these lists. I haven't been contacted, and I'm not going to comment on it again. I have a job to do, and I'm happy with the job I have."

There are no reports Izzo shot down the Cleveland rumor.

But he has vehemently denied whispers of his departure several times before.