Former Michigan State coach Jud Heathcote, 90, dies

Legendary Michigan State men's basketball coach Jud Heathcote, 90, died Monday.

Heathcote guided Michigan State to the 1979 national title, the program's first of two NCAA crowns, behind star Earvin "Magic" Johnson. The Spartans topped Larry Bird and Indiana State in an unforgettable NCAA final.

Heathcote coached Michigan State from 1976-1995, winning three Big Ten titles and amassing a 339-221 overall record, before giving way to assistant Tom Izzo.

Read quotes from Izzo and Michigan State AD Mark Hollis below:

MSU Athletics is sad to announce that Jud Heathcote passed away Monday at the age of 90. pic.twitter.com/DHPW6aA5q0

— Michigan State Men's Basketball (@MSU_Basketball) August 29, 2017

Jud Heathcote deserved those standing ovations.

The @MSU_Basketball legend will be missed dearly. https://t.co/GlRBdcVq3t

— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) August 29, 2017

This clip seems appropriate tonight.

Thank you for the 1979 national title, and for @MagicJohnson, Coach. https://t.co/TMdBktTaQt

— Michigan State on BTN (@MichiganStOnBTN) August 29, 2017