Auburn and Michigan State Clash for Final Four Spot

ATLANTA, Ga. — The No. 4 Auburn Tigers are set to battle No. 8 Michigan State Spartans in the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament at 5:05 p.m. EDT on Sunday, March 30, 2025, after triumphing over Michigan in the Sweet 16. The matchup highlights two teams with outstanding season records: Auburn stands at 31-5 overall and 16-4 in the Southeastern Conference, while Michigan State boasts a 30-6 record and an 18-4 mark in the Big Ten.

The Tigers are favored by 5.5 points, according to the BetMGM sportsbook, with an over/under set at 149.5. Auburn has maintained its scoring prowess throughout the season, averaging 83.6 points per game, which ranks ninth in college basketball. They have also exhibited a strong shooting percentage of 47.9% from the field.

On the other hand, the Spartans have showcased their strength on the boards, leading the Big Ten with an average of 36.7 rebounds per game. Jaxon Kohler leads Michigan State with 7.4 rebounds per game, contributing to their defensive prowess.

Auburn’s offensive strategy is heavily reliant on Johni Broome, who is averaging 18.5 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. His performance in the tournament has been noteworthy, particularly in the previous game against Michigan, where he helped secure their victory. Broome’s shooting percentage stands impressively at 46.6% and he has been hitting 35.4% of his three-point attempts this season.

In addition to Broome, teammate Miles Kelly has emerged as a key player, contributing 13.4 points per game in the last ten outings. Kelly’s consistency adds depth to Auburn’s offensive options. For Michigan State, Jaden Akins has been pivotal, averaging 12.7 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, along with Jase Richardson, who has proven to be a threat from beyond the arc, averaging 2.3 made three-pointers in his last ten games.

The first half of the game promises to be intense, as both teams aim to secure a spot in the prestigious Final Four. The ongoing battle on the court is expected to feature fast-paced plays, strategic ball movement, and key defensive stands. Auburn kickstarts the game with momentum, leading 23-15 with 4:22 left in the first half.

As the matchup progresses, fans can anticipate dynamic plays and thrilling moments as Auburn and Michigan State vie for a place in NCAA history. The stakes have never been higher, and both teams are prepared to leave everything on the court in pursuit of victory.