Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo tests positive for COVID-19.
As COVID-19 cases continue to spike across the country, more and more cases are directly affecting the sports world. Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo announced he tested positive for the virus on Monday.
Izzo has his antigen test confirmed with a PCR test that. Izzo will be in isolation for 10 days and can return to the team on Tuesday, Nov. 17, dating back to the onset of symptoms on Nov. 7.
With Izzo out, associate head coach Dwayne Stephens will be running practices until Nov. 17 when Izzo makes his return. Currently, no other members of the Michigan State basketball team or coaching staff have tested positive since daily antigen testing began on Oct. 26.
Tom Izzo released a statement after revealing his COVID-19 diagnosis
"“This morning I tested positive for COVID-19. Although I have some minor symptoms, I remain in good health. I’ve been extremely diligent for many months now, wearing my mask in public and around the office, while adhering to social distancing guidelines. I’ve been racking my brain, trying to figure out if there was a time where I let my guard down for just an instance. And while I haven’t identified any area of exposure, what I have determined is that this shows the power of the virus. You’d be hard pressed to find a coach who’s taken more precautions than I have, following all the protocols put in place by our medical team, and yet I still contracted the virus.“Technology will allow me to stay connected with my staff and our players, and I’ll have plenty of time to watch film. I’ll listen to our outstanding medical staff, and follow their directions and take all the steps necessary to return as soon as possible.“I appreciate the support from my family, my team and the Michigan State fan base, but if I could ask for one favor, I’d urge everyone to continue to listen to the medical experts and follow their advice. I’m proof that no one is immune, but I still believe that there are steps everyone can take to reduce their chances of contracting the virus.”"
Michigan State basketball is tentatively scheduled to begin its regular season on Dec. 9 vs. Virginia.
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