When I went with my girlfriend to the men's basketball Izzone ticket meeting on Sunday, I witnessed an episode of "My Short, Balding, Obnoxious Basketball Coach."

First, we waited in line for a half-hour outside just to get in Breslin Center. Then, KGB-esque Izzone organizers lectured extensive "no fun allowed rules," and showed that they loved to hear themselves talk. Finally, Tom Izzo took the floor.

He disrespected his strongest supporters by suggesting if students weren't waiting in line to watch a basketball game under the new voucher system, they would be wasting away at Rick's American Café, 224 Abbott Road. He reviewed ridiculous rules on how students should cheer and said he thought every student should have to camp out to get tickets. He should be happy that students pay good money to go to the games and show up, period.

When I was a freshman in 1996-97, Izzo had just taken over as a head coach and the university gave away tickets to students for some games. I don't remember Breslin Center being full, even on free admission nights.

After Izzo's rant, my girlfriend waited in line for 45 minutes to get her tickets. By that time she didn't want them anymore. Under the new plan, she can't even sell them for face value because her name is on them.

Izzo needs to try to remember when he loved basketball and dismiss the arrogant schmuck he has become. If Izzo expects people to support his team, he'd better start respecting fans.

Chris Hansen
2000 graduate