The Green Bay Packers are one of the most followed teams not only in the country, but around the world. Their 13 World Championships (along with four Super Bowls) makes them one of the most successful franchises in NFL history.
As it turns out, one legendary college basketball coach is a huge Cheese Head.
Packers: Legendary College Basketball Coach Announces He’s A Diehard Green Bay Fan
Although Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo was born in Michigan, he grew up near the Wisconsin border and initially supported the Packers. He started rooting for the Lions after his childhood friend Steve Mariucci became the coach of Detroit in 2003. However, his loyalty to Green Bay hasn’t wavered:
“I still have my cheesehead.”
Tom Izzo explains his NFL allegiance to the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions.@heykayadams | @packers | @Lions pic.twitter.com/uA5HrIku1v
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) March 20, 2025
“I’m trying to stay in the times,” Izzo explained. “I gotta adjust a little bit. I gotta tweak it a little bit. Doesn’t mean that I’ve lost all my loyalty. When in Rome, do like the Romans and I’m in Michigan. I still got my cheesehead, but I just keep it on bait.”
There is typically little love lost between Packers and Lions fans, but Izzo has proven to be an exception.
As the No. 10 seed, the New Mexico Lobos (27-7) face the No. 2 seed Michigan State Spartans (28-6) in the second round on Sunday, the winner will advance to the Sweet 16 in the South Region bracket.
Izzo won the National Championship in 2000, and has 11 Big Ten Championships under his belt as well. He is one of the most well-known and respected college basketball head coaches of all time.
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