Tom Izzo Responds to Dusty May’s Dangerous Play Allegations: ‘Call Me’
In a recent basketball showdown, Michigan State’s point guard, Jeremy Fears, drew criticism from Michigan’s head coach, Dusty May. Following the Wolverines’ 83-71 victory over the Spartans in East Lansing, May described a specific play involving Fears as “dangerous.” This incident occurred when Fears allegedly attempted to trip Michigan player Yaxel Lendeborg during a defensive maneuver.
Tom Izzo Addresses Dusty May’s Criticism
Michigan State coach Tom Izzo responded to May’s allegations during a press conference. He emphasized that competitive games often involve intense exchanges between players. Izzo encouraged May to reach out if he believed any actions crossed a line. “If anybody did anything dirty, tell him to call me, and I would be more than happy to address it,” he stated.
Key Game Highlights
- Teams: Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans
- Score: Michigan 83 – Michigan State 71
- Date: February 3, 2023
- Notable Performance: Jeremy Fears scored a career-high 31 points.
- Standings: Michigan (20-1, 10-1 Big Ten), Michigan State (19-3, 9-2)
- Next Meeting: March 8, 2023, in Ann Arbor for regular-season finale.
Fears’ performance included seven assists, five rebounds, and four steals, alongside four personal fouls. Notably, one of his fouls was a flagrant for a late-game play involving Lendeborg. In light of the heated game, Coach May expressed pride in his players’ self-control throughout the contest.
Postgame Dynamics
Izzo also addressed an awkward moment shared with May during a postgame handshake. He noted, “Some guys I talk to – I have no interest in talking to my rival.” Despite the competitive nature of the rivalry, he acknowledged the Wolverines’ superior performance during the game.
Izzo reiterated the importance of focusing on the game itself rather than controversies, stating, “They played better, they were better. We got beat by a better team.” This game marked Michigan’s first victory at the Breslin Center since 2018, adding significance to their win.
