East Lansing, Mich. – The Michigan State men’s and women’s basketball teams kicked off the 2025-26 season with a lively event called MSU Madness on Friday night. This annual celebration brings together fans to enjoy the excitement of college basketball.
Fans started their evening with a thrilling atmosphere at Michigan State Madness before heading outdoors for the Izzone Campout at Munn Field. The Breslin Center opened at 8 p.m., drawing crowds eager to snag new team posters and grab autographs from players and coaches.
The night was filled with energy from performances by the MSU Drumline, cheerleaders, and the Spartan Marching Band. First up were the women’s team introductions, featuring Head Coach Robyn Fralick, who received a good luck message from Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal.
Next, the men’s team took the stage. Head Coach Tom Izzo made a grand entrance from a giant drum, much to the delight of the crowd. A feel-good video played next, showcasing messages from sports figures and former Spartans, including Skubal and Detroit Lions Coach Dan Campbell.
The event wrapped up with a skills contest for the women and an exciting dunk contest for the men, along with brief scrimmages for both teams.
As the season begins, the Michigan State men’s team has two exhibition games lined up: they’ll face Bowling Green at home on October 23, followed by a matchup against UConn on October 28. The official season kicks off on November 3 against Colgate, marking the start of three consecutive home games.
The women’s team will have its only exhibition against Michigan Tech on October 22, with their regular season beginning on November 4 against Mercyhurst.
Basketball is more than just a game in Michigan – it’s a tradition that unites fans and builds community. As the Spartans gear up for the season, the support from fans and local sports legends emphasizes the importance of college athletics in bringing people together.
In recent years, college basketball viewership has surged, reflecting a growing interest in the sport. According to a recent NCAA report, women’s basketball viewership increased by over 20% last season. This rise in popularity is changing the landscape, making events like MSU Madness even more significant.
Events like MSU Madness are a great way to get fans excited, forming treasured memories that will last all season long.
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