MSU’s Izzo passes Knight for most Big Ten wins

Michigan State’s Historic Comeback: A Night to Remember for Tom Izzo

Feb 15, 2025, 11:27 PM ET

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — In a thrilling display of resilience and determination, the Michigan State Spartans, ranked No. 11, staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Illinois Fighting Illini 79-65 on Saturday night. This victory was not just another win for the Spartans; it was a historic moment for their legendary head coach, Tom Izzo, who now holds the record for the most conference wins in Big Ten history.

With this win, Izzo surpassed the late, great Indiana coach Bobby Knight, securing his record 354th conference victory. This achievement is a testament to Izzo’s enduring legacy and his ability to inspire and lead his team to greatness year after year.

The game was a showcase of talent and teamwork, with Jaxon Kohler leading the charge for the Spartans. Kohler delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 23 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. His efforts were complemented by Tre Holloman, who added 14 points to the scoreboard. Not to be outdone, Jase Richardson contributed 11 points, while Coen Carr chipped in with 10 points.

The Spartans, now boasting a record of 20-5 overall and 11-3 in the Big Ten, demonstrated their prowess by outscoring Illinois 42-24 in the second half. This impressive turnaround was capped off by a 15-point run, as the Illini struggled to find their rhythm, missing their last 18 shots over the final 8½ minutes of the game.

Illinois, who led the entire first half and were up by as many as 16 points, seemed poised for victory. However, the Spartans’ 13-point surge late in the first half set the stage for their second-half domination. Despite the loss, Illinois had standout performances from Morez Johnson Jr. and Kasparas Jakucionis, each scoring 17 points. The Illini now hold a record of 19-7 overall and 9-7 in the Big Ten.

Key Takeaways from the Game

• Tom Izzo’s historic 354th conference win, surpassing Bobby Knight.
• Jaxon Kohler’s double-double performance with 23 points and 10 rebounds.
• Spartans’ impressive second-half comeback, outscoring Illinois 42-24.
• Illinois’ strong first-half performance, leading by as many as 16 points.

This game was more than just a battle on the court; it was a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of a legendary coach. Tom Izzo’s achievement is a milestone not only for him but for the entire Michigan State community. As the Spartans continue their journey this season, they do so with the knowledge that they are led by one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the Spartans to see if they can maintain their momentum and continue to build on this historic victory. For now, though, the night belongs to Tom Izzo and his record-breaking achievement.