Izzo tells Cavs "This is Sparta!!!!!"

Michigan State coach Tom Izzo has turned down the Cavs' coaching position and an opportunity to double his current salary from 3 to 6 million a year. Izzo cited a main reason as the unavailability to speak LeBron James and his plans for next season and beyond. Izzo kicked Cavs owner Dan Gilbert into his own pit of death by turning down the job as he was Gilbert's favorite for the postion.

James' uncertain future will make for a difficult decision for any prospective Cavs coach. He is unlikely to tip his hand publicly before free agency begins July 1.

For the past nine days, Izzo has been trying to decide whether to leave the place that has been his home since 1983 and jump to the NBA to perhaps make $6 million -- doubling his salary -- and possibly coach one of the best basketball players in the world.

Izzo readily admitted that the idea of coaching James was very tempting. His son, Steven, too, was intrigued by James.

In the end, he turned down the money for job security and ability to become a legend in East Lansing as he brings the Spartans to glory year after year.