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Tom Izzo on next challenge for MSU basketball: 'March is a special month'
Michigan State coach Tom Izzo discusses the Spartans' upcoming game against Rutgers and the importance of the postseason.
Mar. 4, 2026 at 10:04am
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Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo is pleased with how his team has performed down the stretch, winning critical road games at Purdue and Indiana to aid their quest for a triple-bye in the upcoming Big Ten Tournament. Izzo acknowledges there is still room for improvement, especially against a tough Rutgers team that gave the Spartans trouble in their previous matchup. With two games remaining in the regular season, including a senior night showdown against Rutgers and a season finale at Michigan, Izzo is focused on preparing his team for the postseason and the opportunity to make a deep run in March Madness.
Why it matters
Michigan State's performance in the final two regular season games will determine their seeding in the Big Ten Tournament and potentially their NCAA Tournament seed. Izzo is emphasizing the importance of March to his players, as the Spartans look to build momentum heading into the most critical part of the season.
The details
The Spartans (24-5, 14-4 Big Ten) host Rutgers (12-17, 5-13) on Thursday for their senior night game. MSU narrowly defeated Rutgers 88-79 in overtime in their previous matchup on January 27th. Izzo praised Rutgers' toughness and physicality, comparing them to his 2000 national championship team led by Mateen Cleaves. The Spartans are currently tied for second place in the Big Ten standings with Nebraska, and are in position to earn a triple-bye into the quarterfinals of the Big Ten Tournament. However, they still have work to do to solidify their NCAA Tournament seeding, with a regular season finale at No. 3 Michigan on Sunday.
- On January 27, Rutgers led Michigan State late in the second half before the Spartans mounted a comeback to win 88-79 in overtime.
- Michigan State hosts Rutgers for senior night on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
- Michigan State concludes the regular season on Sunday, March 9, 2026 at No. 3 Michigan.
The players
Tom Izzo
The Hall of Fame head coach of the Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team, in his 31st season leading the program.
Jaxon Kohler
A four-year senior player and starting captain for the Michigan State Spartans.
Carson Cooper
A four-year senior player and starting captain for the Michigan State Spartans.
Steve Pikiell
The head coach of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights men's basketball team.
Mateen Cleaves
The star point guard of Michigan State's 2000 national championship team.
What they’re saying
“There can't be a better month than March.”
— Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State Spartans
“This will be the toughest team we play all year.”
— Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State Spartans
“Obviously, I am biased. But it's gonna be really special.”
— Jaxon Kohler, Senior Player, Michigan State Spartans
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
