Draymond Green Opens the Door-Just Slightly-to Coaching at Michigan State
Tom Izzo isn’t ready to hang it up just yet. The legendary Michigan State head coach is heading into his 71st birthday with the energy of a coach half his age and the hunger of someone still chasing that elusive second national championship.
And let’s be clear-he absolutely is. Izzo’s made it known: retirement isn’t on his mind, and even if he wins it all this season, he’s not the type to ride off into the sunset.
He’ll be back looking for more.
But as much as Izzo remains locked in, the reality is that time eventually catches up to even the greats. And when that day comes-whether it’s one year, five years, or more down the line-Michigan State will have a massive decision to make about who follows in the footsteps of a Hall of Famer.
One name that’s been floated in Spartan circles for years? Draymond Green.
Yes, that Draymond Green. The four-time NBA champion, Defensive Player of the Year, and emotional engine of the Golden State Warriors dynasty.
He’s a Spartan through and through, and his basketball IQ has never been in question. But coaching?
That’s a different conversation.
For a long time, Green himself didn’t entertain the idea. In interviews and media appearances, he’d laugh it off. A firm “no” was usually the answer when asked if he’d ever consider returning to East Lansing as the head coach.
But something’s shifted.
“Never Say Never” - Draymond’s Tone Changes
On a recent episode of The Draymond Green Show, the former Spartan star cracked the door open just a bit. When asked-again-about the possibility of coaching at Michigan State one day, Green didn’t dismiss it outright. In fact, he admitted that the more time passes, the more the idea grows on him.
His words? It’s no longer a definitive “no.”
That’s a notable change. Green explained that as he’s gotten older and had more time to reflect on the college game-and on his own journey through the sport-he’s started to see the appeal. He spoke candidly about his love for Michigan State and his willingness to do whatever it takes to help the program succeed.
That doesn’t mean he’s ready to trade in his jersey for a clipboard tomorrow. Green is still very much an active NBA player, and coaching-especially at the college level-is a grind all its own. But the fact that he’s even considering it now is a shift worth paying attention to.
Why the Idea Isn’t as Far-Fetched as It Once Seemed
Let’s be clear: Draymond Green would be walking into uncharted territory if he ever did take over at Michigan State. He’s never coached at any level. But what he lacks in experience, he makes up for in basketball acumen, leadership, and an innate understanding of how to connect with players.
In today’s college basketball landscape, those qualities matter more than ever. Recruiting is as much about relationships and credibility as it is about Xs and Os.
Green, with his NBA resume and unmistakable presence, would have instant cachet with young athletes. He knows what it takes to win at the highest level, and he’s never been shy about holding others to that standard.
Plus, his ties to the program run deep. Green played under Izzo from 2008 to 2012, helping lead the Spartans to a Final Four and becoming one of the most beloved players in school history. His connection to the Spartan community isn’t just symbolic-it’s personal.
The Future Is Still Izzo’s, But the Conversation Has Started
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Tom Izzo is still at the helm, and he’s not going anywhere just yet.
The Spartans are still in the thick of national contention, and Izzo’s recruiting efforts show no signs of slowing down. He’s as locked in as ever.
But when the day does come-and it will-Michigan State will have to make a decision that defines the next era of Spartan basketball. And while Draymond Green may not be the obvious choice on paper, his name is one that will continue to come up, especially now that he’s no longer shutting the door on the idea.
For now, it’s just a “maybe.” But in East Lansing, even a maybe from Draymond Green is enough to get people talking.
And dreaming.