Izzo prepares for return trip to Kuwait
Tom Izzo said last year that he got more out of “Operation Hardwood - Hoops With The Troops” than the troops themselves…and that’s not just because his team won the tournament. Izzo thought it was such a great experience that he’s heading back to Kuwait again this summer. This time he’ll be joined by Texas’ Rick Barnes, U.S. Military Academy’s Jim Crews, U.S. Naval Academy’s Billy Lange, Kentucky’s Tubby Smith, Maryland’s Gary Williams and former Air Force coach Reggie Minton from the NABC. On Friday, Izzo spoke with MSU Sports Information about defending his title and what he hopes to get out of this year’s trip.
Q: Was it an easy decision to go back to Kuwait?
A: It really was a no-brainer. There are a couple of different things that we’re going to do. One, we are going to stay right on base, probably in tents. So that will be interesting. And I guess they are having a cold spell right now. Last year, it was 130 every day and the prediction is 112 every day this year. That’s the advantage of going in May.Q: Are you bringing the trophy? (Last August, Izzo led Camp Arifjan to the Operation Hardwood championship.)
A: I don’t know. I don’t know what kind of team I’ll have this year. Last year’s team was a little loaded. Last year, we had just come off a Final Four. I’m trying to think who they’ll give that to, maybe Rick Barnes.Q: When you think of the experience last year, do you expect this experience to be any different now that you’ve been there once?
A: I don’t think there’s anything like the first time, but at the same time, I think in a way it will give us a better idea what to expect and what we can do and how we can spend our time a little bit better. I think staying right on base will be even more enjoyable and entertaining.