In a historic and electrifying moment that has sent shockwaves through the global cheerleading community, Michigan State University’s Cheerleading Squad has officially been named the #1 Cheer Team on the Planet by ESPN following their show-stopping performance at the 2025 International Cheer and Dance Championship (ICDC) in Tokyo.
Performing under the bright lights of the worldโs biggest cheer stage, the Spartan squad delivered a gravity-defying, emotionally-charged routine that combined precision stunts, synchronized choreography, and raw Spartan pride. The crowd erupted as the final pyramid rose to the beat of a thunderous remix of classic fight songs and cinematic orchestration, bringing judges and fans alike to their feet.
โThis wasnโt just cheerleading. This was a movement,โ said ESPN commentator Rachel Kim. โThey didnโt just performโthey transformed the mat into a stage of athletic poetry. Michigan State didnโt follow the trend. They are the trend.โ
Michigan State outshined powerhouse programs from South Korea, Brazil, Japan, and Australia to take the crown, earning near-perfect scores across all categories: Technique, Creativity, Spirit, and Crowd Impact. Their flawless execution and commanding presence earned them the first-ever Perfect Performance Award issued at the ICDC.
The squad’s captain, senior Brielle Carter, was emotional following the announcement: โWe came here with one goalโnot just to win, but to define what elite looks like. This moment is for every Spartan who has ever bled green and white. We didnโt just cheerโฆ we conquered.โ
Head coach Marcus DeLeon, who has led the team since 2020, praised his athletes for their relentless discipline and unity. โEvery jump, every flip, every chant was built on sweat, belief, and Spartan spirit. These athletes represent the future of cheerโand they just raised the bar for the world.โ
Back in East Lansing, spontaneous celebrations erupted on campus as students filled the streets waving green flags and chanting, โQUEENS OF THE MAT! SPARTANS REIGN!โ
From underdog status to undisputed global champions, the Michigan State Cheerleaders have rewritten the script. Their journey is a testament to what happens when heart, hustle, and history collide.
To the new queens of the mat, the soul of the sideline, the pride of Michiganโshine on, sweet Spartans. Because legends donโt follow wavesโฆ they create them. ๐โจ
