Tom Izzo Looks to 2012 PF Matt Costello to Continue Spartan Dominance

When you go to the Final Four as often as Tom Izzo’s Michigan State Spartans, talented recruits line up. Tom has spoken at length about the past players that

When you go to the Final Four as often as Tom Izzo’s Michigan State Spartans, talented recruits line up. Tom has spoken at length about the past players that return to East Lansing and support the program. It is evident, that it is one of the most important pieces of the basketball experience in East Lansing. Kids that grow up watching the Spartans have embraced the extended “Izzo Family” as part of the perennial Final Four program.

Spartan Nation spoke with 2012 recruit Matt Costello (6’8” 212#) yesterday and learned a great deal about the young man from Bay City Western. Like so many of the young men that find their way to East Lansing, Costello is a family first guy coupled with a basketball body.

One of the biggest factors for MSU recruits is how they handle coaching. Costello’s willingness to get better and accept criticism is one of the biggest reasons East Lansing is a potential fit. Matt had this to say about Coach Izzo. “The fact that he’s a down to earth guy and tells it to you straight is one of things that I like about Coach Izzo.”

Matt knows he needs to improve. “I need to get better at shooting the basketball, I am just not consistent enough to be called a shooter.” With two years of high school remaining, there is little doubt that Matt will address many of the deficiencies in his game before entering the college landscape. Most analysts have him firmly entrenched among the top three players in the state of Michigan for the class of 2012. He could be a serious contender for Michigan’s Mr. Basketball if he continues to extend his range and become more consistent.

Matt told us a little about himself. He is a self-proclaimed hard worker. It is the part of his game that he describes as his biggest asset. He was quick to praise his parents. Matt comes from a really good family. I have known Matt’s father Mike as we both attended the same high school in North Branch, Michigan. Mike told me that they feel very fortunate to have options for Matt close to home. It was evident that the Costello’s very much want Matt to stay within driving distance so that they can continue to be a part of Matt’s collegiate experience. Matt also holds an offer from the Michigan Wolverines in addition to the Spartans.

We asked Matt about the person who impacted his life the most. Like most good sons, his dad was the first person he mentioned. “My dad has just talked to me about everything throughout my life.” Knowing what I do about the Costello family, parenting clearly revolves around discipline, but also faith. Matt freely expresses his faith In God and it quick to point out that his Christian upbringing is a huge part of who he is.

Look for Matt to continue to garner more press as he polishes his game. It is likely that Matt will grow an inch or two and could be ranked among the top post players in the Midwest by the time his senior year is finished. We wish Matt and his family the best and look forward to following his progress over the next couple seasons.