Who Is Tom Izzo’s First Wife? The Life and Love Story of Lupe Izzo

Tom Izzo’s first wife, Lupe Marinez Izzo, has been a significant part of the famed basketball coach’s life for over three decades. They met in the early 1990s and married in 1992. Together, they have two children, a biological daughter and an adopted son, and share a life grounded in family, philanthropy, and community.

Early Life and Background of Lupe Izzo

Lupe Izzo was born in December 1953 in Texas. She grew up in a large family with seven brothers and three sisters. Now 71 years old, she lives in East Lansing, Michigan, with her husband Tom Izzo. Lupe studied at Michigan State University and is known as a businesswoman and community advocate.

How Tom and Lupe Met

Their love story began through a chance meeting arranged by Lupe’s sister-in-law, who worked as a secretary in the Michigan State basketball office. Lupe was invited to a party at Tom’s house after a big game, but initially, she gave Tom the cold shoulder because he had a girlfriend at the time. She even hung up on him when he called and told him to call back only when he was single.

Despite this rocky start, they met several more times. Tom gave Lupe tickets to the Big Ten championship game and encouraged her to bring a date. After attending with her nephew, their relationship blossomed, eventually leading to marriage.

Lupe Izzo’s Career and Philanthropy

Lupe is very active in charitable work. She manages the Izzo Legacy Family Fund, which supports many charities in East Lansing. She has also served as chairperson of the Tri-County United Way Campaign (2005-2006). Lupe supports several community organizations, including the Cristo Rey Community Centre and the Greater Lansing Food Bank.

Tom and Lupe’s Children

The couple has two children:

• Raquel Izzo McDonald (born August 1994) is their biological daughter. She graduated from Michigan State University in 2017 and now works as the Executive Director of the Izzo Legacy Family Fund alongside her mother. Raquel is married and has a daughter named Isabelle, born in 2023.

• Steven Mateen Izzo (born June 16, 2000) is their adopted son. Born in West Virginia, he was adopted by the Izzos just four days after birth. Steven attended Lansing Catholic High School and later played as a guard for the Michigan State Spartans men’s basketball team. He studied advertising management at Michigan State University.

Fun Facts and Trivia

• Tom Izzo was born in Iron Mountain, Michigan, on January 30, 1955, and is one of the highest-paid college basketball coaches.

• Lupe is active in the Coaches Vs Cancer initiative, partnering with the American Cancer Society.

Lupe Izzo, Tom Izzo’s first wife, is more than just the spouse of a famous coach. She is a dedicated businesswoman and philanthropist. Their relationship started with a playful challenge and grew into a strong family bond that has lasted over 30 years. Together, they have built a life full of love, community support, and shared success.