Tom Izzo’s ‘fortunate’ remark after Michigan State loss attracts ire from March Insanity followers
Tom Izzo’s postgame feedback following Michigan State’s Sweet 16 loss to Kansas State on Thursday should not sitting effectively with some March Insanity followers.
When chatting with TBS reporter Allie LaForce following the Spartans’ thrilling 98-93 extra time loss to the Wildcats at Madison Sq. Backyard, Izzo tipped his hat to Kansas State however remarked of “fortunate performs” in the identical breath.
“Give them credit score. They banked in two shot-clock threes. They made some large performs however a few of these performs weren’t large performs, they have been fortunate performs. I didn’t assume we performed our greatest. I feel a few of it was them, I feel a few of it was us, however boy, we bounced again in that second half,” Izzo mentioned when requested in regards to the closing minute of the sport.
With just below a minute to go in extra time, Kansas State’s Markquis Nowell launched the ball from center court and related with teammate Keyontae Johnson for an epic alley-oop to offer the Wildcats the sting.
Kansas State’s Ismael Massoud then hit a clutch two-point shot after a prolonged assessment over an out of bounds name with 15 seconds to go in extra time.
Nowell, the Wildcats’ fifth-year senior, then put the sport away after stealing the ball from the Spartans within the closing seconds for a layup.
In what was an unforgettable night time from Nowell, the Harlem native recorded 19 assists – an NCAA Event document – and 20 factors, together with an unbelievable three-pointer on a hobbled ankle.
“I wasn’t going to let an ankle harm cease me from advancing to the Elite Eight. … I’m from New York Metropolis. I’m robust,” Nowell mentioned postgame.
Whereas some took to social media afterward to have fun Kansas State’s Elite Eight berth, others dissected Izzo’s phrases.
“Unhealthy search for Izzo. 1 or 2 performs don’t outline a sport. You bought beat bud,” one user tweeted.
Another remarked, “Wow, bringing that backhanded praise from the left shoulder.”
Regardless of the heartbreaking finish to the Spartans’ March Insanity run, Izzo lauded his staff’s effort.
“I’ve been a part of lots of wins, I’ve been a part of lots of losses, robust losses, however I’ve by no means been prouder of a staff as a result of we actually didn’t have it tonight, and but, we nonetheless discovered a option to battle again, and I used to be happy with our guys,” mentioned Izzo, whose staff superior to the Candy 16 with wins over USC and Marquette.
No. 3 seed Kansas State will subsequent face No. 9 seed Florida Atlantic on Saturday following the Owls’ 62-55 win over Tennessee on Thursday.