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How Cassius Winston unlocked Tom Izzo for a second title run, without 'piss and vinegar'

Michigan State basketball is set for a strong season largely because of senior star Cassius Winston. Wochit, Wochit

EAST LANSING — He spends more time with his players than he ever has. Partly because his own kids are grown and don’t need him as much. Partly because the culture at large is changing.

No, really, insists Tom Izzo, it is.

Players today, he is convinced, need more guidance, more reassurance, more help navigating the stage that comes with playing basketball at a place like Michigan State. And, so, Izzo texts. And talks on the phone.