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Michigan State announces Tom Izzo tests positive for COVID-19

Tom Izzo
Posted at 3:28 PM, Nov 09, 2020
and last updated 2020-11-09 15:30:12-05

(WXYZ) -- Michigan State head basketball coach Tom Izzo tested positive for COVID-19, the school announced Monday.

MSU says Izzo had a presumptive positive test Monday morning during the Big Ten’s daily antigen testing, which was later confirmed by a PCR test.

In accordance with CDC and Big Ten guidelines, Izzo is undergoing a 10-day isolation period. During Izzo’s isolation, associate head coach Dwayne Stephens will run practices.

The school says no other members of the basketball program have tested positive since Big Ten daily antigen testing began on October 26, including Izzo testing negative each time until Monday morning.

Izzo released the following statement:

“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.”