Michigan State’s Tom Izzo emphasizes ‘accountability’ this offseason
The Michigan State men’s basketball team is looking for its next leader after guards Tyson Walker and AJ Hoggard and forward Malik Hall left the program.
Most would say that player would have to be Jaden Akins. And while he’s ready to fill that role, Michigan State coach Tom Izzo doesn’t have to limit himself to a single vote.
“In the past, it’s just been leaders – I don’t think we’ve had a real leader,” Michigan State veteran point guard Tre Holloman said after playing at the 2024 Moneyball Pro-Am on Thursday. “So coach wants us to be leaders. He doesn’t just want one person to be a leader, he probably wants almost the whole team to hold each other accountable.”
Izzo’s idea of a leader is different from some other coaches in college basketball. Holloman described what his legendary coach wants from that role.
“Self-evaluation and just talk, don’t stop talking,” the Spartan point guard said. “And just tell people what it looks like … to win.”
“Winning” means something different at Michigan State than it does at many other programs in the sport. There is a higher standard that every Spartan must understand when they come into the program. Much of that must be instilled by the veterans.
“I just set the tone from the beginning,” Holloman said. “I tell them what it is, what it isn’t, and then just get back to Spartan basketball.”
Holloman is another player expected to take on that leadership role, especially as a third-year point guard.
“I’m the point guard, so I have to lead a team, make sure everything runs smoothly and make sure I’m the coach on the field,” Holloman said on opening night of the Moneyball Pro-Am last month.
Holloman averaged 5.7 points per game and 2.5 assists in all 35 games for Michigan State last season, starting twice.
As seniors, Akins, Holloman, Carson Cooper and Jaxon Kohler will have primary responsibility for leading this newly formed Spartan squad and getting this team ready for the upcoming season against Michigan State Basketball.
Don’t forget to follow the official Spartan Nation page on Facebook Spartan Nation IF YOU CLICK HEREand become part of our vibrant community group Go Green Go White IF YOU CLICK HERE.
Live review of Karol G – The Colombian singer delivers an exciting show at the O2 Arena
Rival parties clash at committee meeting over death of marine
Grants announced for 31 Michigan small businesses – Daily Tribune
About The Author
