Michigan State men's basketball head coach Tom Izzo released a statement expressing his excitment and optimism toward the coming season.

"I'm excited to know that we have a date to start our season and that's a positive for college basketball," Izzo said. "It's a bit of a later start than we've had in the past, but I think we have had time to look at things and that we will be able to put a schedule together that includes out great non-conference games and the Big Ten. Things may be a bit different this year, but we will continue to follow all of the safety protocols that we have in place so that we can ensure a safe and healthy return to play. This is a great day for players, coaches and fans of college basketball."

Other plans were also passed in Wednesday's council meeting:

• Practices can start Oct. 14
• Maximum number of games: 27
• Minimum number of games: 13
• No scrimamges/exhibition games
• At least 4 non-conference games recommended

Nov. 25 is one day before Thanksgiving. For Michigan State, that means there likely will not be any students on campus during that time due to students having the option to stay home after Thanksgiving break.

While the NCAA has finalized a starting date, there is still lots of work to be done toward playing a season this year. Health and safety guidelines still need to be established as well as a schedule that likely will look different than ever before. On top of that, in similar fashion to college football, individual conferences will have to commit to playing.

The Division 1council is expected to meet next month to vote on more measures for the season and also address the women’s basketball season.