“Being mentioned in the same breath as some of the finalists, not to mention the current members of the Hall of Fame, is incredibly humbling," Izzo said in a press release. "Never in my wildest dreams growing up in Iron Mountain did I imagine ever being named a Hall of Fame finalist. I’m appreciative of the selection committee even considering me. I tell my players all the time to achieve success they must dream it first, but I’d be lying if I said this was something I ever dreamed."

In 21 seasons as the head coach of MSU, Izzo has guided his Spartans to a 515-204 overall record, seven Big Ten Championships, seven Final Fours and a national championship in 2000.

Izzo's current team is  20-5 and ranked No. 8 in the country.

“As a coach, you can’t achieve success without the help of so many people," Izzo said. "Today’s announcement gives me reason to stop and reflect on all the people who have helped me along the way. From the players and the coaches, to my mentors and everyone along my journey from Iron Mountain to Northern Michigan to Ishpeming High School and finally to Michigan State, my home for the last 33 years, they’ve all played a giant part in my success, and needless to say, I wouldn’t be here without them.”