Izzo rejects Cavaliers, will stay at MSU

CLEVELAND, June 15 (UPI) -- Men's basketball Coach Tom Izzo said Tuesday he will remain at Michigan State University, spurning an offer from the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers.

"There was a lot of information to gather and consider and some of it wasn't easily obtainable," Izzo said in a statement. "But when making a life decision, I owed it to myself and my family to do my due diligence.

"From that I never wavered. And I'm pleased to say I am here for life at Michigan State."

Izzo spent Thursday visiting with Cavs officials, The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer reported, saying Izzo flew to Cleveland in the private jet of franchise owner Dan Gilbert.

Some media sources indicated the 15-year MSU mentor was reluctant to sign a reported $30 million deal because of the uncertain status of Cleveland superstar LeBron James, who becomes a free agent July 1.

"I wish (Gilbert) nothing but the best in his quest to win a world championship," Izzo said. "Just as I decided to stay home, I hope a 6-8, 270-pound forward (James) in Cleveland decides to stay home."