Tuesday marked the 81st birthday of former MSU basketball coach Jud Heathcote and the best part of this week found him being released from a Spokane, Washington hospital.  Jud underwent double bypass surgery a week ago.  He has had some heart issues in the past, but is said to be doing well at home.  Jud has lived in Spokane with his wife Bev, who is also ailing a bit these days, since retiring as MSU basketball coach following the 1995 season.  He spent 19 years as MSU's head coach before giving way to Tom Izzo.  Jud's surgery was a bit of a surprise for most MSU athletic department followers, most of whom were unaware of his situation as of Tuesday night.

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