Overview
- The former Northwestern coach was unveiled Tuesday in East Lansing, saying he has "been dreaming about this day" and promising a program run with the "highest integrity."
- Michigan State announced the hire Monday, with multiple outlets reporting a five-year contract; the Board of Trustees is next set to meet on Dec. 12 for formal approvals.
- Fitzgerald replaces Jonathan Smith, who was fired after a 4-8 season, with reports indicating the university owes Smith a buyout exceeding $30 million.
- He led Northwestern for 17 seasons with a 110-101 record, was dismissed in 2023 following a hazing probe, and later settled his wrongful-termination lawsuit as the school said evidence did not show he directed or condoned hazing.
- Fitzgerald said closing the current recruiting class is his first task before assembling a staff, as AD J Batt and President Kevin Guskiewicz publicly endorsed his fit for the program.