Michigan State coach Tom Izzo sharply criticized the NCAA's recent approval of immediate eligibility for James Nnaji, the 2023 NBA draft pick who joined Baylor midseason, calling it a 'travesty' that undermines college basketball's integrity during a December 27 press conference.
Following the NCAA's Christmas Eve 2025 ruling granting four years of eligibility to 21-year-old center James Nnaji—despite his NBA draft status and European pro experience—Michigan State coach Tom Izzo unleashed a fierce critique in his December 27 press conference in East Lansing.
Izzo, in his 31st season leading the 11-1, ninth-ranked Spartans, questioned the precedent of allowing drafted players into college: "Now we're taking guys that were drafted in the NBA and everything? ... If that's what we're going to, shame on the NCAA. Shame on the coaches, too. But shame on the NCAA."
He raised concerns for player development and fairness, using a hypothetical with junior Coen Carr: imagining replacing him with former Spartan Miles Bridges. "I'm thinking of, what is best for my son if he was in that position? And I just don't agree with it."
Labeling the decision an 'absolute travesty,' Izzo accused NCAA leadership of dodging lawsuits over upholding structure. He referenced a similar ruling for London Johnson and suggested polling Division I coaches, predicting only 5-10% support. Despite advice from a prominent coach to avoid challenging 'city hall,' Izzo warned the blurring lines between college and pro sports erode education and could hasten retirements like his own.
