Following a hard-fought 73-70 victory over Ole Miss in the Sweet 16, Michigan State coach Tom Izzo downplayed the significance of reaching the Elite Eight, emphasizing that banners are only raised for Big Ten championships, Final Fours, and national titles.

Izzo expressed pride in leading his team to the Elite Eight for the 11th time, but reiterated that his focus remains firmly on winning championships rather than celebrating this milestone.

The game against Ole Miss began with a challenging start for Michigan State, which struggled with early turnovers and faced a double-digit deficit as the Rebels dominated the paint in the first half.

However, the Spartans turned the game around in the second half, showcasing a resilient and cohesive team effort that has characterized their season, despite not being the most talented group Izzo has coached.

Izzo noted that while his team has achieved a significant milestone, they still have room for improvement and must focus on playing better as they prepare for their next game.

He emphasized that the team is still growing and learning, and he believes they can continue to improve as they progress further in the tournament.

Reflecting on the team's success, Izzo highlighted the importance of connectivity and togetherness, stating that these qualities can often outweigh raw talent.

Players, including Tre Holloman, expressed admiration for Izzo's competitiveness and leadership, reinforcing the strong bond within the team and their belief in their potential in the tournament.

At 70 years old, Izzo continues to coach amidst significant changes in college basketball, including new name, image, and likeness rules and the transfer portal, as he pursues a second national championship.