Spartan Fans Hurl Insults at Illinois Player

Unruly fan behavior at a Michigan State basketball game raises concerns about sportsmanship and civility.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Michigan State fan at a recent basketball game against the University of Illinois engaged in a barrage of profanity-laced insults and bullying behavior towards an Illinois player and a young Illinois fan. The fan's actions drew the ire of other Spartan fans in the section, leading to a confrontation that required the involvement of ushers to calm the situation.

Why it matters

This incident highlights growing concerns about the erosion of sportsmanship and civil discourse, not just in the sports world but in society at large. As fans, we have a responsibility to maintain a respectful environment and set a positive example, especially for young fans. The normalization of aggressive, abusive behavior can have far-reaching consequences for the culture of the game and the community.

The details

The unruly fan, wearing a 'FUCK Michigan' shirt, had been hurling a continuous stream of profanities and insults at the Illinois players and officials for nearly the entire game. When he targeted a young Illinois fan in a beanie hat, sitting with his mother, other Spartan fans in the section began to revolt against the fan's behavior. A confrontation ensued, with the fan defiantly claiming 'This is MY school' before being forced to cover up his shirt and have an usher assigned to monitor him for the remainder of the game.

  • The incident occurred during a Saturday 8 p.m. basketball game between Michigan State and the University of Illinois.

The players

Keaton Wagler

A player for the University of Illinois basketball team who was the target of the unruly fan's insults.

The unruly fan

A Michigan State fan who engaged in a barrage of profanity-laced insults and bullying behavior towards an Illinois player and a young Illinois fan.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This isn't how we conduct ourselves here.”

— A Spartan mom (lansingcitypulse.com)

“Hey, you gotta shut your hole. We've had to put up with your crap all game and we're tired of it.”

— A Spartan fan (lansingcitypulse.com)

“The game is over there!”

— The unruly fan (lansingcitypulse.com)

“And I'm looking at you.”

— The author (lansingcitypulse.com)

What’s next

The university is expected to review the incident and determine if any disciplinary action will be taken against the unruly fan.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder that we must hold ourselves and our fellow fans to a higher standard of sportsmanship and civility. As passionate fans, we have a responsibility to create an environment that is welcoming and respectful for all, setting an example for the next generation of sports enthusiasts.