Spartans Remain Top Seed in Latest NCAA Tournament Projection

Michigan State basketball maintains high seeding despite recent inconsistent play

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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According to the latest 'Bracketology' update from ESPN's Joe Lunardi, the Michigan State Spartans are projected as a No. 3 seed in the Midwest Region of the 2026 NCAA Tournament. Despite an up-and-down stretch of games over the past two weeks, the Spartans' seeding has not shifted, keeping them on track for a potential deep tournament run.

Why it matters

Michigan State's consistent placement as a top seed in Lunardi's projections indicates the team's continued strength and status as a national title contender, even amidst a period of uneven play. This will be crucial as the Spartans look to secure a favorable tournament draw and position themselves for a potential championship run.

The details

In Lunardi's latest bracket, the Spartans would face No. 14 seed North Dakota State in the first round, with a potential second-round matchup against the winner of No. 6 seed Arkansas and either No. 11 seed Miami (FL) or No. 11 seed New Mexico. Michigan State is currently 20-4 overall and 10-3 in Big Ten play, and has a number of tough games remaining that could further bolster their seeding before Selection Sunday.

  • The Spartans will next take the court on Friday, February 14, 2026 in a road game at Wisconsin. Tipoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET.

The players

Michigan State Spartans

The men's basketball team of Michigan State University, a perennial NCAA Tournament contender and national title threat.

Joe Lunardi

ESPN's resident 'Bracketologist', responsible for projecting the NCAA Tournament field throughout the season.

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What they’re saying

“Michigan State basketball has had an up-and-down stretch of games over the past two weeks, but their seeding in the NCAA Tournament hasn't shifted, according to Joe Lunardi of ESPN.”

— Robert Bondy, Author (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The Spartans will look to continue their strong season and solidify their tournament seeding with a win over Wisconsin on Friday, February 14th.

The takeaway

Despite some recent inconsistency, Michigan State's status as a top seed in the NCAA Tournament projections underscores the team's continued strength and national prominence. As the Spartans navigate the remainder of their schedule, maintaining this high seeding will be crucial in positioning them for a deep tournament run and potential championship.