One of Michigan State's corporate sponsors chose not to have its logo behind Tom Izzo and Mark Dantonio during recent news conferences.
Auto-Owners Insurance spokesman Trevor Mahoney tells The Associated Press Tuesday: "The company does not believe it is currently appropriate to place advertising branding on media backdrops used during discussions of serious topics that have impacted the lives of many," on Tuesday.
Izzo and Dantonio, the Spartans' basketball and football coaches, spoke to reporters about their scrutinized programs last Friday in front of a green backdrop adorned with "Michigan State" and the school's logo in white.
Both addressed an ESPN report detailing how they have handled sexual assault complaints. Izzo says he has always cooperated with investigations and will in the future. Dantonio insists he has always worked with the proper authorities when dealing with sexual assault allegations.
Izzo, a Hall of Famer, will likely face more questions on Wednesday night after his fifth-ranked hosts plays Penn State.
Nassar, a former Michigan State doctor, was sentenced last week to decades in prison for young female athletes.
