In a move that has energized the Michigan State University (MSU) basketball community, former Spartan standout Shawn Respert has joined head coach Tom Izzo’s coaching staff. Respert, who remains MSU’s all-time leading scorer with 2,531 points, brings a wealth of experience from both his illustrious playing career and his extensive coaching tenure.

 

During his time at MSU from 1991 to 1995, Respert was a dominant force on the court. He led the Spartans in scoring all four seasons and was named the Big Ten Player of the Year in 1995. His remarkable achievements earned him consensus First-Team All-American honors and the distinction of National Player of the Year by The Sporting News and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC). In recognition of his contributions, MSU retired his jersey number 24 in 1998, and he was inducted into the MSU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012.

 

Following his collegiate success, Respert was selected as the eighth overall pick in the 1995 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers and subsequently traded to the Milwaukee Bucks. His NBA career included stints with the Toronto Raptors, Dallas Mavericks, and Phoenix Suns. After retiring as a player, Respert transitioned into coaching and player development roles. He has served as director of player programs for the Houston Rockets, player development coach for the Minnesota Timberwolves, assistant coach for the Memphis Grizzlies, and director of player development for the Chicago Bulls.

 

Respert’s return to MSU reunites him with Tom Izzo, who was an assistant coach during Respert’s playing days under head coach Jud Heathcote. Izzo, who has led the Spartans to numerous Big Ten titles and a national championship since becoming head coach, expressed enthusiasm about adding Respert to his staff, citing his deep understanding of the game and his commitment to player development.

 

The MSU community has warmly welcomed Respert back to East Lansing. Fans and alumni are optimistic that his presence will have a positive impact on the team’s performance and culture. Respert’s firsthand experience as a top collegiate player, combined with his professional insights, positions him to be a valuable mentor to current and future Spartans.

 

Respert’s journey has come full circle, from his days as a record-setting player to his new role on the coaching staff. His return symbolizes a bridge between MSU’s storied past and its promising future, reinforcing the program’s tradition of excellence and dedication to developing leaders both on and off the court.