“Spartan Basketball has lost a dear friend today," Izzo said. "Gus was one of the most selfless and positive people that I’ve ever been around. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Ganakas family as they grieve their loss." 

Ganakas, an MSU alumnus became an assistant men’s basketball coach in 1966, taking over as head coach after three years. He left his mark on Spartan basketball history with a 17-9 overall record for the 1974-75 season. This was the second-highest victory total at the time, according to the release.

After his time as head coach, Ganakas remained heavily involved in Spartan athletics. He served as an assistant athletic director from 1976-98 and organizing the 1989 MSU Basketball Centennial Celebration.

Ganakas was an aide for Izzo from 1998-2000. In the release Izzo said Ganakas helped foster a family atmosphere in MSU basketball, crediting Ganakas with any coaching success he has had.

“We will all miss Gus … his smile and his sense of humor. He’s been a bright light to my entire family, from both my parents to my wife Lupe and children Raquel and Steven," Izzo said. "But his impact on the entire Spartan family will continue to live on. And if there are ever tough times in heaven, they now have the perfect guy to make everyone feel just a little bit better.”