It’s an emotional time to be a Spartan. Five weeks ago, tragedy struck Spartan nation, when a 43-year-old gunman opened fire on campus, killing three students and injuring several more. We’re still numb from the incident. But, we’re trying to heal. And Tom Izzo and the Michigan State men’s basketball team is helping.

Michigan State pulled off a huge upset on Sunday (March 19) against Marquette to enter the Sweet 16 of the 2023 men’s NCAA tournament. The Spartans are a No. 7 seed, and Marquette is No. 2, so it was a surprise win. Well, it was a surprise win for anyone who isn’t familiar with how Izzo does things in March, at least. I graduated from Michigan State University when Izzo was coach – I mean, he’s been coach there for more than 25 years – so I know first-hand why Izzo is truly Mr. March.

Izzo let the tears roll during his post-game interview. It was the team’s first Sweet 16 berth since 2019.

“It’s been a long year, but really proud of those guys. Shaka [Smart] has a hell of a team, he does a hell of a job. We just finally made some plays. Our defense got a little better again. We made some plays. I’m just happy for our guys,” Izzo said.

Now, things are serious again. The celebrating is over, and Izzo and the Spartans are gearing up for a big game on Thursday (March 23). Michigan State will go up against Kansas State in the Sweet 16. That game will take place at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Coach Izzo is moved to tears after @MSU_Basketball secured a spot in the Sweet 16 ❤️#MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/wKY7D0ioca

— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) March 19, 2023