Michigan State Defeats Louisville 77-69 in NCAA Tournament

Cardinals' season comes to an end in second round loss to Spartans

Mar. 21, 2026 at 11:12pm

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The Louisville men's basketball team's 2025-26 season has officially come to an end, as the Cardinals dropped a 77-69 decision to Michigan State in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. The Spartans jumped out to an early lead and held off a late Louisville comeback attempt to advance.

Why it matters

This loss marks the end of Louisville's season, which saw the team struggle at times but make it to the NCAA Tournament. The game highlighted some of the Cardinals' weaknesses, including their difficulty coming back from halftime deficits and late-game situations.

The details

Michigan State opened the game on a 14-3 run to take an early 14-7 lead. Louisville was able to cut the deficit to three points, but the Spartans maintained control and led 36-31 at halftime. In the second half, Michigan State extended its lead to as much as 13 points before Louisville made a late push, but the Cardinals were unable to get closer than six points in the final minutes.

  • The game was played on March 21, 2026.
  • Michigan State led 36-31 at halftime.
  • The Spartans went on a 13-3 run in the second half to take a 63-50 lead with 6:41 to play.

The players

Adrian Wooley

Louisville player who shot 70% from the field and scored 7 points with 4 rebounds and 3 assists.

Ryan Conwell

Louisville player who scored a team-high 21 points in his final collegiate game.

Jeremy Fears Jr.

Michigan State player who dished out 16 assists, the most ever against Louisville by an opponent.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

This loss marks the end of Louisville's 2025-26 season, which saw the team make the NCAA Tournament but struggle at times, particularly in coming back from halftime deficits and late-game situations. The game highlighted some of the Cardinals' weaknesses as they look to regroup and improve for next season.