Brianna Williams, ESPN
Michigan State Spartans head coach tom izzo i Golden Oakland GrizzliesTeammate Greg Kampe decided to show off his fun side on Tuesday night by wearing a festive outfit inspired by Dr. Seuss at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.
The longtime friends spread holiday cheer by wearing matching Grinch sweaters, as well as the iconic green character’s grumpy face and mischievous smirk. The lighthearted gesture highlighted the camaraderie between two coaching legends who have been cornerstones of the Michigan basketball scene for decades.
Izzo, who has eight Final Four appearances and a national championship in 2000, and Kampe, the winningest coach in Golden Grizzlies history, shared a moment during the game that transcended their competitive personalities.
“It’s the respect I have for him, it’s good for our state,” Izzo said of his rivalry with Kampe in 2019. “It became a little miniature competition. This isn’t Michigan-Michigan. … Each of them is full. It’s packed every year, no matter where we play, and to his credit they are always competitive. “
With their Grinch-inspired fashion ensemble, Izzo and Kampe showed that sometimes the best way to celebrate the holiday season is with humor, friendship and, of course, a game of hoops.
Michigan State HC Tom Izzo and Oakland HC Greg Kampe are wearing Grinch sweaters 😂 pic.twitter.com/8msyE23SRw
— Sports Center (@SportsCentrum) December 18, 2024
