LeBron wouldn't talk to Izzo

There were reports Michigan State coach Tom Izzo would announce his future on Saturday. Then it was Monday. Finally on Tuesday night, Izzo officially turned down an offer to coach the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Izzo acknowledged the reason for the delay, which was already obvious: He was hoping to speak with LeBron James and gauge his interest in re-signing with Cleveland as a free agent.

James preferred to stay out of the Cavs coaching search and did not speak with Izzo. Without any inkling of James’ future, Izzo decided to stick with the known commodity in East Lansing.

“(James future) was one of the key factors,” Izzo said. “If LeBron would've stayed that doesn't mean that I would have been there. It was not the only factor. Was it a big factor? Sure it was.”

Izzo reportedly did speak with some people close to James. But the two-time MVP was clear about his intentions. On July 1, he’s a free agent who will explore his options.

The Cleveland Plain-Dealer suggested the Cavs are not in any hurry to move forward in their coaching search. Duke coach Krzyzewski and ABC analyst Jeff Van Gundy reportedly were approached, but passed.

The Cavaliers have spoken to ex-Hornets coach Byron Scott, but he wants to wait and see what Lakers coach Phil Jackson does. If Jackson retires, Scott could be a contender to lead his former team.

The fact that James is distancing himself from the Cavaliers is promising news for those teams with cap room, including the Bulls. Free-agency is just over two weeks away.

During his news conference, Izzo took a side, saying, "Just as I decided to stay home, I hope a 6-8, 270-pound forward in Cleveland decides to stay home.”

He hopes.