Tom Izzo’s comments Wednesday that the NCAA needs to “seriously” consider the possibility of eliminating automatic bidding for mid-major schools didn’t resonate with many.
Izzo will make his 26th consecutive March Madness appearance with the Spartans this year, and the legendary coach understands the NCAA Tournament very well.
But his words certainly raised some eyebrows.
“I’m thinking about what’s going on right now. Everyone wants an upset in the first weekend, but I don’t know if that’s what’s best for the game. That needs to be seriously considered. I think so,” Izzo said after making sure to point out his Division II roots.
The NCAA Tournament selection process has come under intense criticism over some of the teams left out this season, with Big East teams St. John’s, Seton Hall and Providence drawing the most local ire.
In addition to considering automatic bidding, Izzo also talked about expanding the tournament.
He also floated the idea of allowing 100 teams to do the Big Dance.
“I feel bad for some of the teams that weren’t able to participate when there was an automatic bid,” Izzo told reporters. “I don’t really know why, but in the conference tournament, there are times like Purdue, which dominates the conference with a record of 17 wins and loses. I think it’s difficult to see why people will be left behind.
“I don’t know if we can fix anything there. But if we did, the conference tournament wouldn’t be like this — if we’re being very frank and honest, it’s more about the money than the players and the teams. It’s all about what’s best.”
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey reignited the NCAA Tournament debate with his famous comments to ESPN. Athletic.
in Another conversation with a reporter from The Athletic, Izzo clarified that his comments earlier in the day had been misinterpreted and that he was “for the little guy.”
“I’m always on that kid’s side. I think there’s a better way,” Izzo told the magazine.
Izzo said he hadn’t seen Sankey’s comments, but he had heard about St. John’s coach Rick Pitino’s desire for coaches to have more say on the selection committee.
“I think there must definitely be some [former] Coaches, players are working to bring some levity to this crazy situation,” Izzo said in a press conference Wednesday.
