Michigan State's Tom Izzo says 'everyone was special' to Flip Saunders

"My heart is heavy for Flip's wife Debbie, son Ryan, who will carry on the basketball coaching torch, and daughters Mindy, Rachel and Kimberly. I lost a beloved friend today, but I can only imagine the heartache his wonderful family is feeling. I've read and heard some of the tributes to Flip, and I take solace in seeing the outpouring of love for him.

"Flip had many great qualities, and an outstanding coaching resume, but what made him special was the way he treated people. It didn't matter if you were one of his players, an opposing player or coach, front office personnel or first-year intern, loyal fan or heckler, media or critic, or simply someone he passed on the street, he treated everyone with utmost respect.

"I played against Flip in college and later convinced him to join our staff at Tulsa, although I left two days later. I had the pleasure of coaching for him in the 2001 Goodwill Games, and spent a lot of time with him while he was coaching the Detroit Pistons and in between jobs. It's been a 30-plus year friendship, but Flip never changed. From junior college coach to college assistant to the CBA, and eventually the NBA, it didn't matter what level of success he achieved, Flip always treated people the same.

"Our friendship grew over the years and we became very close, but I never felt like he treated me better than anyone else. To Flip, everyone was special. He was gracious in defeat, humble in victory, and he was always willing to help out other coaches. He had a brilliant basketball mind, and it was always a pleasure watching film with him or having him teach me a new offensive strategy. But inevitably, those conversations that started out as a basketball chalk talk would turn to our families, and other more important matters. Flip had a passion for coaching and basketball, but he also had amazing balance in his life.

"If there's one thing that brings a smile to my face on this very sad day, it's hearing his players talk about him. The respect and love in their voices and in their words are the ultimate tribute to a coach.

"Basketball and, more importantly, humanity lost a great man today, but Flip's positive impact on everyone's life that he touched will leave a lasting legacy – one which can inspire and drive us all."