Tom Izzo now has a clearer picture of the path to a potential Final Four run in 2027—and with the Final Four set to take place in Detroit, the stakes couldn't be higher for Michigan State basketball. The Big Ten announced its opponents for the 2026-27 season on Tuesday, May 12, with the full schedule of dates expected in mid-September.
The Spartans will renew their fierce rivalry with defending Big Ten champion Michigan in the annual home-and-home series. They'll also face Maryland and Nebraska both at the Breslin Center and on the road, giving fans plenty of marquee matchups to look forward to.
At home, MSU will host Minnesota, Oregon, Penn State, Purdue, Rutgers, Washington, and Wisconsin in single-game matchups. On the road, the Spartans will travel to Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Ohio State, UCLA, and USC. This marks the second trip to Los Angeles in three years since the Big Ten expanded to 18 teams in 2024-25, while Washington and Oregon return the favor after MSU's Pacific Northwest trip last season.
Izzo, who holds 11 regular-season conference championships, is chasing history. He's tied with Bob Knight and Ward "Piggy" Lambert for the most in Big Ten history—and breaking that tie would be a fitting achievement for a coach who keeps reloading.
Last season, the Spartans went 27-8 overall, reaching the Sweet 16 for the second straight year and the third time in four seasons. They finished 15-5 in conference play, tying for second place after winning the league title the year before. With most of the roster returning and a new big man in the fold, Izzo believes this could be one of his most complete teams yet.
The Final Four is set for April 3 and 5, 2027, at Ford Field in Detroit—a venue that holds special meaning for Izzo, who led the Spartans to the national championship game there in 2009. Before conference play heats up, MSU is expected to face Tennessee, Gonzaga, and Arkansas in a challenging nonconference slate. While those deals aren't finalized, a source confirms the Spartans and Razorbacks are likely to meet on November 26 at Little Caesars Arena. Duke also looms as a Champions Classic opponent.
Whether you're gearing up for game day or dreaming of that Final Four run, now's the time to stock up on your Michigan State gear. From Izzo's signature sideline style to fan-favorite jerseys, we've got everything you need to cheer on the Spartans in style.