Michigan State's Jeremy Fears Jr. Matches Magic Johnson's March Madness Assist Record

The Spartans point guard has dished out 27 assists over the first two games of the NCAA Tournament.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:33pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Michigan State point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. has etched his name into the school's record books with a historic performance in the NCAA Tournament. Fears Jr. has recorded 27 assists over the Spartans' first two tournament games, passing the legendary Magic Johnson for the most assists by a Big Ten player in a two-game span in the last 50 years of March Madness.

Why it matters

Fears Jr.'s record-breaking performance highlights his elite playmaking abilities and leadership as Michigan State's floor general. Matching a feat accomplished by an all-time great like Magic Johnson underscores Fears Jr.'s potential to lead the Spartans on a deep tournament run.

The details

In Michigan State's Round of 32 win over Louisville, Fears Jr. dished out 16 assists, despite shooting just 3-for-13 from the field. Through the Spartans' first two tournament games, Fears Jr. has totaled 27 assists, surpassing the previous Big Ten record held by Magic Johnson.

  • On Saturday, March 22, 2026, Michigan State defeated Louisville in the NCAA Tournament Round of 32.
  • Over the Spartans' first two tournament games, Jeremy Fears Jr. has recorded 27 assists.

The players

Jeremy Fears Jr.

The starting point guard for the Michigan State Spartans basketball team.

Magic Johnson

A legendary point guard who played for Michigan State in the late 1970s and is considered one of the greatest players in NBA history.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Jeremy Fears Jr. has 27 AST in his last two games. That mark passes Magic Johnson for the most AST over any 2-game NCAA tournament span by a Big Ten player in 50 years.”

— ESPN Insights

What’s next

Michigan State will face the winner of Sunday's Round of 32 matchup between another Big Ten team and an opponent to be determined in the Sweet 16 later this week on Friday.

The takeaway

Jeremy Fears Jr.'s historic performance in the NCAA Tournament has cemented his status as one of the elite point guards in college basketball, joining the ranks of Michigan State legend Magic Johnson. Fears Jr.'s ability to facilitate the offense and create opportunities for his teammates will be crucial as the Spartans continue their quest for a national championship.