Spartan Hoopla: Tom Izzo Is Staying at Michigan State 'For Life'

Spartan fans world wide heard eight words from basketball coach Tom Izzo on Tuesday that put a rest to the rumors of his departure.

"I am here for life at Michigan State,"Izzo said in a press release.

After a week of posturing, contemplating and debating, the Spartan coach stayed true to his roots by turning down an estimated $30 million deal from Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert.

It turns out the outpouring of support could have swayed Izzo's decision—even if it was a little brash.

"It’s been an agonizing week as I tried to make a decision about a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Izzo said.

“The entire Michigan State community has been terrific. I’m almost embarrassed by some of the acts of support, but I’m certainly touched."

In seven-day span, the Michigan State faithful blanketed East Lansing and surrounding areas with "We Love Izzo" signs. Banners were posted on his office window, and there was even a website built in tribute to MSU's all-time greatest hoops coach.

The offer was sweet. The bait was tempting, but Izzo just couldn't give up on the team that he has constructed into a perennial national title contender.

Spartan fans were beginning to question the coach's loyalty. There were conspiracy theories posted on message boards. Some suggested that Izzo's flirting with the Cavaliers was nothing more than a ploy to help out the organization's owner.

All is clear on the Izzo front, as the coach is prepared to deliver his statement to the masses in less than an hour.

Thanks, but no thanks, Gilbert. We'll keep our coach right where he's at.

And that's where he belongs—for life—at Michigan State.