Sunday's clash between the Michigan State Spartans and Ohio State was a nail-biter, leaving Buckeyes fans with a bitter taste. Yet, it was Michigan State's head coach, Tom Izzo, who stole the post-game spotlight with his heartfelt words for Ohio State's standout, Bruce Thornton.
Izzo, never one to shy away from speaking his mind, had nothing but praise for Thornton, a player who has become a staple in college basketball. Before the game even tipped off, Izzo shared a touching moment with Thornton, expressing his admiration for the player's commitment to Ohio State.
"I talked to (Bruce) Thornton before the game," Izzo said. "Told him it's been an honor and a privilege to coach against him for four years.
I said you stayed put. You didn't run and leave like everybody does nowadays.
You've been an incredible player."
Izzo's comments highlight a rarity in today's college basketball landscape. With the lure of transferring for better opportunities, Thornton's decision to remain loyal to Ohio State is a testament to his character. Despite the temptation to join a team with a shot at a deep NCAA Tournament run, Thornton chose to stick with the Buckeyes, consistently delivering standout performances.
In the recent loss to Michigan State, Thornton showcased his talent with an impressive 32-point performance. Throughout the season, he's been a force on the court, averaging 20.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game.
As the regular season winds down, the reality of Thornton's college career coming to an end looms large. His impact on Ohio State has been profound, earning admiration from fans and coaches alike. With Tom Izzo among those tipping their hat to Thornton, it's clear his legacy will endure well beyond his final game in a Buckeyes jersey.