The Spartans are set up to become one of the best teams in college basketball this season, and most of that is in part to their legendary coach, Tom Izzo, and the things he has done and will continue doing for the team.He provides consistency when the team hits slumps, helping it reach its full potential, even amid chaotic events like those unfolding with Michigan State's athletic department over the past few days.Mar 27, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; Michigan State Spartans head coach Tom Izzo reacts in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images | Amber Searls-Imagn ImagesAll of this has been expected by Spartans fans since Izzo has shown no signs of leaving the team for retirement or anything else, but in a world where he somehow did not return, many things would have been different.More specifically, two things would have been vastly different for the team in a bad way instead of the good he is bringing: Jeremy Fears Jr.'s return to the team rather than pursuing the NBA, and the preseason hype.Jeremy Fears Jr. Without Tom IzzoMichigan State coach Tom Izzo talks with guard Jeremy Fears Jr. (1) during the second half of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball East Regional game against UConn at Capital One Arena in Washington DC on Friday, March 27, 2026.