Dear Coach: FOX Sports’ Bill Raftery has shared a heartfelt congratulatory letter to Tom Izzo, marking a significant milestone in college basketball. On Saturday night, Izzo led the 11th-ranked Michigan State Spartans to a 79-65 victory over Illinois, surpassing Bob Knight’s Big Ten record for wins. This achievement is particularly poignant, as Izzo’s first Big Ten victory, back in January 1996, was against Knight’s Indiana Hoosiers.
Raftery, a respected college basketball analyst for FOX Sports, has maintained a close friendship with Izzo since his early coaching days as an assistant under Jud Heathcote. Over the years, Raftery has called numerous Michigan State games and took the opportunity to express his admiration for Izzo’s remarkable achievement.
In his letter, Raftery wrote:
Dear Tom,
Congratulations on surpassing Bob Knight as the winningest coach in Big Ten basketball history. Your name now stands among the legends of the sport.
Everyone who knows you recognizes the impact you have made on basketball. Achieving this record, with Big Ten win No. 354, is a feat you likely never envisioned when you began your journey as an assistant coach at Michigan State.
Reflecting on your early days as head coach, I remember your relentless drive and ambition. While Jud and I enjoyed our time joking around, you were focused, breaking down film, and determined to succeed. It was clear then that you were destined for greatness in coaching.
A memorable moment comes to mind when your Spartans faced Iowa State for a chance to reach the Final Four. After Iowa State coach Larry Eustachy received a double technical foul and was ejected, you approached him with respect and managed to persuade him to leave the court. This act demonstrated the deep respect that fellow coaches have for you.
What stands out most about you is your humility and simplicity. Earlier this season, when you took your team to play an exhibition game at your alma mater, Northern Michigan, the affection you showed for that school and the connections with your former teammates were truly moving. It highlighted the genuine love you have for the game and its community.
You are not only an extraordinary coach but also a true friend. Together, we have experienced both challenges and triumphs, and the trust we have built over the years creates a unique comfort.
You have been a blessing to the game of basketball, Tom.
Congratulations.
– Bill
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