The Michigan State Spartans, led by Hall of Fame coach Tom Izzo, head into their Elite Eight showdown against the top-seeded Auburn Tigers with the grit, experience, and defensive identity that has defined their 2024–2025 campaign. With a 30-6 overall record and a No. 2 seed in their region, the Spartans have battled their way through a rugged Big Ten schedule and a demanding NCAA Tournament path that included victories over Bryant, New Mexico, and a hard-fought 73-70 triumph over Ole Miss in the Sweet 16. Michigan State’s deep tournament run is no accident—they’ve steadily improved throughout the season, leaning into their hallmark toughness, half-court execution, and postseason poise that has become a trademark of Izzo’s legacy. With an opportunity to return to the Final Four for the first time since 2019, the Spartans are prepared for the physical and mental test that Auburn will bring. What makes this Michigan State team dangerous is its ability to control the flow of a game. The Spartans rank among the most efficient defenses in the nation, allowing just 90.7 points per 100 possessions. Their defensive approach is rooted in sound fundamentals, smart rotations, and an ability to take away a team’s first option. Opponents are forced to grind out possessions, and Michigan State’s ability to close defensive possessions with strong rebounding has limited second-chance opportunities. Leading the defensive charge is senior guard A.J. Hoggard, whose on-ball pressure disrupts opposing point guards and initiates transition opportunities off of steals and deflections. Fellow veteran Tyson Walker, a scoring-minded guard, has also been essential, providing shot creation and the ability to finish through contact or knock down perimeter shots late in the shot clock. Offensively, Michigan State doesn’t light up the scoreboard like Auburn, but they’re extremely disciplined and efficient when executing half-court sets.

The Spartans average just under 121 points per 100 possessions and prioritize ball movement, spacing, and attacking mismatches. Their guard play, led by Walker and Hoggard, ensures that they rarely get rattled—even when tempo slows or pressure mounts late in games. Malik Hall, one of the team’s most versatile forwards, plays a critical role as a connector, defending multiple positions, setting hard screens, and hitting timely mid-range jumpers. In the frontcourt, Mady Sissoko brings rebounding and rim protection, while sophomore Jaxon Kohler has emerged as a reliable post presence capable of providing offense off the bench. What sets this team apart in March is their experience and composure. This roster is loaded with upperclassmen who’ve seen deep tournament runs and understand how to win close games. In typical Tom Izzo fashion, the Spartans are peaking at the right time, playing their best basketball when it matters most. Against Auburn’s explosive offense, Michigan State’s objective will be to slow the game down, prevent transition buckets, and force the Tigers into contested shots. If the Spartans can keep the score in the 60s or low 70s, their style and execution give them a real chance to pull off the upset. They’ve been battle-tested, they’ve embraced adversity, and now they stand just one win away from another trip to the Final Four—fueled by toughness, tenacity, and a belief in Michigan State basketball tradition.