The Storied History and Success of Michigan State Basketball

The History of Michigan State Basketball

Michigan State's basketball program, known as the Spartans, has a rich history dating back over 100 years. Their first recorded game took place in 1899 when they defeated Olivet College by a final score of 17-16. Since that inaugural contest, Michigan State has gone on to have tremendous success on the hardwood.

The Spartans play their home games at the Breslin Center, which opened in 1989 and seats over 14,000 enthusiastic fans. Some of the great coaches in program history include Benjamin Van Alstyne, who won 115 games from 1927-1949, Ned Irish who led the Spartans to the 1956 Final Four, and the legendary Jud Heathcote, who coached Magic Johnson and the 1979 National Championship team.

The Izzo Era

In 1995, Tom Izzo was promoted from assistant and took over as Michigan State's head coach. Under Izzo's leadership, the Spartans have become one of the most consistent winning programs in all of college basketball.

Izzo teams have made eight Final Four appearances, won the 2000 national title, captured three Big Ten regular season crowns, and won six Big Ten Tournament championships. Known for his fiery demeanor, emphasis on rebounding and defense, and ability to develop players, Izzo has mentored program greats including Mateen Cleaves, Morris Peterson, Jason Richardson, and more recently, Miles Bridges, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Cassius Winston.

Spartan Superstars

In addition to those already mentioned, Michigan State has produced many standout performers over the decades. Scott Skiles still holds several program records from his prolific career in the mid-1980s. Shawn Respert was one of the best scorers in Spartans history, once scoring 54 points in a 1995 game versus Indiana. Big men like Greg Kelser, Jay Vincent and Kevin Willis also had stellar careers donning the green and white.

Of course, the most recognizable name in program lore is Earvin "Magic" Johnson. His battles with Larry Bird and Indiana State in the 1979 NCAA Tournament title game remain an indelible memory for many college basketball fans. Overall, Michigan State has retired numbers for eight former players, underscoring the deep talent that has come through East Lansing.

Recent Success Under Izzo Continues

Coach Izzo continues to bring top-level talent to Michigan State in the latter stages of his career. As recently as 2019, the Spartans once again advanced to the Final Four before falling to Texas Tech. That team featured do-everything forward Cassius Winston and NBA lottery pick, Jaren Jackson Jr.

Last season, Michigan State won 22 games and returned to the NCAA Tournament after a one-year absence during the COVID-19 pandemic shortened 2020-2021 season. Fans remain hopeful that the sustained success under Izzo will continue and that additional championships and Final Fours could still be in the Spartans' future.

Passionate Fan Base

The dedicated fans of Michigan State basketball, known collectively as the "Izzone," are widely regarded as one of the best - and loudest - groups in college sports. Named after their beloved coach, the Izzone vigorously supports their team with creative chants, deafening noise, and unwavering loyalty regardless of wins and losses.

When the Breslin Center is filled with the Izzone faithful wearing their trademark green and white, it's an incredibly intimidating environment for opposing teams. The Spartan fans' passion and energy have helped fuel many thrilling home victories through the years.

What's Next

Entering his 28th season at the helm, Tom Izzo has shown no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Michigan State continues to competitively recruit against the nation's top programs, securing commitments from elite high school players across the Midwest and beyond.

With their dedication to defense, rebounding, selflessness, and playing with maximum effort - staples of Izzo-coached teams - the future remains bright for Spartan basketball. There is optimism that more Big Ten crowns, Final Fours, and perhaps even another national championship could be on the horizon in East Lansing.

FAQs

How many national championships has Michigan State basketball won?

Michigan State has won 2 national championships in men's basketball - in 1979 with Magic Johnson and again in 2000 under coach Tom Izzo.

Who is Michigan State's biggest basketball rival?

The Spartans' biggest rivalry is with the University of Michigan. The intrastate rivalry games between Michigan State and Michigan are always intense and passionate.

What venue do the Spartans play basketball games in?

Michigan State plays its home basketball games at the Breslin Student Events Center in East Lansing, Michigan. The arena is nicknamed "the Breslin" and opened in 1989.

What is the nickname of Michigan State's student section?

The popular student section for Spartan basketball is known as "the Izzone." This references longtime Michigan State coach Tom Izzo and is known as one of the most creative and loud student sections in college basketball.