Michigan State coach Tom Izzo's speech goes viral for addressing gun violence, fans have their say: "It's so far beyond basketball"

Tom Izzo is known as one of college basketball's best coaches, but he is getting praise for other reasons this week. Following the tragic events that transpired at Michigan State University, the head coach gave a powerful speech that has many singing his praises.

On Monday night, an active shooter opened fire on two different areas of MSU's campus. The shooter ended up taking the lives of three innocent students while leaving five more in critical condition.

During the campus vigil for those who lost their lives, Tom Izzo spoke on behalf of the athletics department. As someone who has been with the university for nearly 40 years, he is devastated by what happened. On top of being with the basketball program for so long, Izzo also has two sons currently enrolled at MSU.

While speaking to the crowd, Izzo thanked the first responders for their efforts and applauded the students for how they conducted themselves during the shooting. Above all, he delivered a powerful message about how they as a community now need to stick together to get through this.

"Our hearts are heavy, our losses have been great, our lifes have been permanently changed, but with a shared commitment to help each other, and a promise to remember those we have lost, we will learn to find joy once again."

Many applaud Tom Izzo for his powerful words following the Michigan State tragedy

It had to have been hard for Tom Izzo to go up and speak in such a manner. As a parent of two students, there is no telling how he is feeling after such horrific events happened so close to home. That being said, his powerful words undoubtedly brought the Michigan State community closer together.

Following this incredible speech, many rushed to social media to praise Izzo for the message he gave. Only together can a group of people get past a tragedy like this.

Izzo is a pillar of the MSU community, and the backing behind him is a true testament to that. His ability to step up and give a powerful message in such a dark time proves what a great leader he is.