EAST LANSING, MI - Michigan State Basketball Coach Tom Izzo revealed Monday afternoon that he tested positive for COVID-19, and announced his diagnosis through the team’s social media channel. The school released a statement saying that the coach is facing mild-symptoms and remains in good health and received a presumptive positive test that was confirmed by a PCR test.

Izzo is one of millions of Americans who have been affected personally by contracting COVID-19 amidst the ongoing global pandemic, and contracting the virus for him comes at a time when Michigan in particular is experiencing a rise in cases.

Izzo gave a statement and said, "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.”

Izzo said he will continue to stay connected with his coaching staff and players virtually as he fights the virus and added, ”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."

Associate Head Coach Dwayne Stephens will lead the Spartans’ practices while Izzo is in isolation for 10 days and can return to the team in-person on Tuesday, Nov 17 at the earliest.