EAST LANSING, Mich. – Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo has tested positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing minor symptoms.
Izzo had a presumptive positive test Monday during the Big Ten’s daily antigen testing, Michigan State University announced. His positive test was confirmed by a PCR test.
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Izzo will have to be away from the team for 10 days. Since the onset of his symptoms was determined to be Saturday (Nov. 7), he can return Nov. 17 at the earliest.
Associate head coach Dwayne Stephens will run practices during Izzo’s isolation period.
Nobody on the team has tested positive since Big Ten daily antigen testing began Oct. 26, the university said.
Here is a statement from Izzo:
"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.”