May 2, 2008

2008 Commencement Video

EAST LANSING, Mich. - Drew Neitzel and Idong Ibok will receive their undergraduate degrees this weekend (May 2-3). Neitzel, a second-team Academic All-American and three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree, will receive his degree in interdisciplinary humanities. Ibok, a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree, is receiving his degree in telecommunication. Teammate Drew Naymick received his bachelor's degree in finance in May 2007. Since 2000, 29 Spartans have received their undergraduate degrees.

"Graduation is always a great day," said MSU head coach Tom Izzo. "It's well documented what these guys accomplish as athletes, but not enough times is there enough credit given to these guys that get the job done in the classroom, too. We've had a tremendous graduation rate over the years.

"I'm really proud of ID (Idong) and Drew for getting the job done."

For the student-athletes, graduation is a special day for them and their families.

"To come to a university like Michigan State and get your degree in four years is a great accomplishment," said Neitzel. "It's something that means a lot, not only to myself, but my family."

"(Graduation) means a lot to me, and it means a lot to my family and my mom, especially," said Ibok. "It's always been a dream of hers for me to get an education and graduate. Coming here to Michigan State, I've had the opportunity to do that. It's exciting to finally get that degree."

Following graduation, Neitzel will move to the Washington, D.C., area next week to begin training for a professional basketball career. With one year of eligibility remaining, Ibok plans to enroll in graduate classes next year at Michigan State.