BREAKING: Tom Izzo Crowned 2025 College Basketball’s Philanthropy Icon—Honored for Life-Changing Impact, Humanitarian Efforts, and Generous Spirit Through the Tom Izzo Family Foundation’s Remarkable Community Work
BREAKING: Tom Izzo Crowned 2025 College Basketball’s Philanthropy Icon—Honored for Life-Changing Impact, Humanitarian Efforts, and Generous Spirit Through the Tom Izzo Family Foundation’s Remarkable Community Work
In a moment that transcends the game of basketball, legendary Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo has been named the 2025 College Basketball Philanthropy Icon, recognizing his profound humanitarian impact and unwavering commitment to community service through the Tom Izzo Family Foundation. While Izzo’s accolades on the court are well-documented—including a national championship and multiple Final Four appearances—it is his work off the hardwood that is now capturing national attention.
The announcement was made during a special ceremony hosted at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, where peers, former players, and community leaders gathered to celebrate Izzo’s enduring legacy of giving. The award honors not only a career of excellence but a life dedicated to making a difference.
“Tom Izzo exemplifies what it means to be a leader—not just in sports, but in life,” said NCAA President Charlie Baker. “Through his foundation, he has changed lives, lifted communities, and inspired others to use their platforms for good.”
Established in 2011, the Tom Izzo Family Foundation has grown into one of the most impactful philanthropic organizations tied to college athletics. Its mission centers around supporting underserved youth, advancing education, and promoting health and wellness across Michigan and beyond. Over the past decade, the foundation has donated millions to children’s hospitals, food security programs, educational scholarships, and mental health initiatives. In 2024 alone, it funded 20 full-ride scholarships for first-generation college students and expanded its mental health outreach program across public schools in Lansing.
Izzo, who remains deeply involved in every aspect of the foundation’s work, accepted the honor with characteristic humility. “Basketball has given me so much,” he said during his acceptance speech. “But the greatest victories are the ones off the court—when you see a young person go to college who never thought they could, or when a family finds hope in the middle of hardship. That’s what really matters.”
The award also recognized Izzo’s hands-on approach to service. He is often spotted volunteering at food banks, mentoring at-risk youth, and rallying his players to engage in community service. Under his leadership, the Spartans have developed a team-wide culture of giving back, frequently partnering with local organizations to uplift those in need.
Former player Draymond Green, who credits Izzo as a lifelong mentor, praised his coach’s example. “Coach taught us more than basketball. He taught us what it means to lead, to give, to care. This honor is long overdue.”
As Izzo continues to coach into his 30th season, his impact stretches far beyond the walls of the Breslin Center. With his foundation expanding its reach and a new generation of athletes learning from his example, Tom Izzo’s legacy as a humanitarian now stands as tall as his legendary coaching career.
For Tom Izzo, it’s clear: the game of basketball was just the beginning.
