Mateen Cleaves has returned to Michigan State University in a senior coaching role. A legendary figure in MSU basketball history, Cleaves led the Spartans to the 2000 NCAA Championship under coach Tom Izzo and was known for his leadership, toughness, and charisma on the court. His performance during his collegiate career made him one of the most beloved players in MSU history and earned him numerous accolades, including being a three-time Big Ten Player of the Year.
Given his deep ties to the university and the basketball program, there has been ongoing speculation over the years about whether Cleaves would eventually take on a formal role with the Spartans, particularly in coaching or player development. His connection to Coach Izzo and the program’s legacy makes the idea compelling to fans and alumni. However, despite those ties, Cleaves has not been appointed to a coaching position or any official capacity at the university.
Since his retirement from professional basketball, Cleaves has pursued various endeavors, including broadcasting, motivational speaking, and youth mentorship. At times, he has remained involved in basketball circles, but his post-playing career has not included coaching at the collegiate or professional level.
There have also been personal and legal matters in Cleaves’ life that may have influenced decisions regarding formal roles within academic or athletic institutions. Although he was acquitted of all criminal charges in a high-profile case in 2020, the legal proceedings may have impacted his public profile in the years that followed.
Ultimately, while Mateen Cleaves continues to be a symbol of MSU basketball excellence, he has not returned in a senior coaching role at Michigan State University. Whether that will change in the future remains uncertain.
