Michigan State Spartans Advance to Sweet 16 After Defeating Louisville

Spartans overcome 15 turnovers to reach the Sweet 16 for the 17th time under Tom Izzo

Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:06am

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The Michigan State Spartans are headed to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament after defeating the Louisville Cardinals 77-69. Despite committing 15 turnovers that led to 20 points for Louisville, the Spartans played a strong overall game to advance to the next round for the third time in four seasons.

Why it matters

Michigan State's victory over Louisville marks the 17th time the Spartans have reached the Sweet 16 under head coach Tom Izzo, cementing the program's status as one of the most consistent and successful in college basketball. The win also provides the team with valuable momentum heading into the next round of the tournament.

The details

Point guard Jeremy Fears led the way for Michigan State, recording a double-double with 12 points and 16 assists - a new Michigan State record for assists in an NCAA Tournament game. Forward Coen Carr also had a big game, posting a double-double of his own with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Trey Fort continued his strong play off the bench, scoring 12 points on 3-of-5 shooting and adding 5 rebounds and a steal.

  • The game was played on March 22, 2026 in Buffalo, New York.

The players

Jeremy Fears

Michigan State's starting point guard, who set a new school record for assists in an NCAA Tournament game with 16.

Coen Carr

Michigan State forward who recorded a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds.

Trey Fort

Michigan State reserve forward who scored 12 points off the bench and played solid defense.

Tom Izzo

Michigan State's head coach, who has led the Spartans to the Sweet 16 for the 17th time in his tenure.

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What they’re saying

“Fears set a Michigan State record for assists in a NCAA Tournament game, surpassing the mark set by Spartan legend Magic Johnson.”

— Paul Konyndyk, SpartanMag staffer

“Afterward the NBA Hall of Famer congratulated Fears for a job well done in a post on X in which he described Fears as the best point guard in college basketball.”

— Paul Konyndyk, SpartanMag staffer

What’s next

The Spartans will face the winner of the game between Gonzaga and UCLA in the Sweet 16.

The takeaway

Michigan State's victory over Louisville showcases the team's depth and resilience, as they were able to overcome a high turnover count to advance to the Sweet 16 for the 17th time under Tom Izzo. The Spartans' strong play from their starting lineup and bench provides optimism for their chances of making a deep tournament run.