The Michigan vs. Michigan State basketball rivalry is set to reach new heights in the 2025-26 season. While Michigan State has dominated the matchup in recent years, Michigan’s resurgence under coach Dusty May has added fresh intrigue to one of the Big Ten’s most anticipated showdowns.
After a dismal 8-24 record in 2023-24, Michigan bounced back in 2024-25, flirting with a Top 25 ranking and showing glimpses of a competitive squad. Despite their improvement, the Wolverines couldn’t topple Tom Izzo’s Spartans, who claimed another Big Ten title.
This offseason, both programs experienced significant roster shakeups. Michigan State bid farewell to key contributors like Tre Holloman, Jaden Akins, and Xavier Booker but reloaded with a mix of talented transfers and highly touted recruits. Returning stars Jaxon Kohler, Jeremy Fears Jr., and Coen Carr ensure the Spartans remain formidable under Izzo’s leadership.
On the other side, Michigan made a splash in the transfer portal and recruiting trail. They secured high-profile players like Elliot Cadeau, Aday Mara, and Morez Johnson. However, the return of Yaxel Lendeborg, a projected first-round NBA pick, has raised expectations in Ann Arbor. After an underwhelming NBA Combine, Lendeborg chose to bolster Michigan’s roster instead of declaring for the draft. His decision has fueled chatter of a “national title or bust” mentality for the Wolverines.
The heightened stakes and revamped rosters set the stage for two electrifying matchups between the in-state rivals. Michigan’s aspirations for Big Ten dominance and beyond clash with Michigan State’s consistent excellence and hunger for another title run.
As always, Izzo thrives when his team is underestimated, and with less preseason hype surrounding the Spartans compared to their counterparts in maize and blue, he may relish the opportunity to prove doubters wrong yet again.
Circle the dates on your calendar—when these two teams meet, it’s bound to be a spectacle. Whether it’s the intense play on the court or the storylines off it, the Michigan vs. Michigan State rivalry is primed to captivate basketball fans in 2025-26.
