Spartans Ready to Clash with Tigers in Elite Eight Showdown

ATLANTA — Tom Izzo‘s Michigan State Spartans are poised for a pivotal Elite Eight matchup as they face the Auburn Tigers on Sunday in hopes of returning to the Final Four for the first time since 2019.

The game will tip off at 5:05 p.m. at State Farm Arena and can be viewed on CBS. The Spartans, who hold a 30-6 record, secured their place in the Elite Eight with a thrilling victory that showcased the leadership and skill of redshirt freshman point guard Jeremy Fears.

Fears, although contributing only four points and six assists in the last game, demonstrated his basketball IQ through crucial plays that shifted momentum in favor of the Spartans. “Jeremy made some big plays. He really did a hell of a job,” Izzo said after the game.

Fears’ performance included making critical free throws, executing a timely steal, and assisting his teammates under pressure. The young point guard is drawing comparisons to past greats like Mateen Cleaves, who led the Spartans to a national championship in 2000, as he aims to secure a spot in San Antonio.

“Gotta thank God and just grateful for this opportunity,” Fears remarked as he prepared for the challenge against Auburn, who holds a formidable 31-5 record.

Auburn’s star player, freshman Tahaad Pettiford, presents another level of challenge. He posts averages of 11.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game while shooting 37.6% from beyond the arc. Fears and Pettiford have a history, having faced each other multiple times during their youth careers, intensifying the anticipation for their clash.

<p“Confident kid. He trusts in his work,” Fears said, recognizing Pettiford's talent. “He’s really skilled, believes in his game. He makes tough shots.”

As the stakes rise, both teams understand the critical role that point guard play will have in determining the outcome. Spartans junior Tre Holloman emphasized the need to stay focused amid the competitive banter that often surfaces on the court. He said, “I think talking gets Jeremy going, man. That’s what gets him fired up.”

Fears’ journey back to elite competitive basketball has been remarkable, especially after he was shot last year. Now, he is leading his team on a path that could cement his legacy among the great Michigan State point guards if they can secure one more victory.

“Incredible talent, incredible gift,” commented Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl, who is aware of Fears’ family basketball pedigree. “Fearless. A killer.”

With only one win separating them from a trip to the Final Four, the pressure is mounting. As Fears concluded, “We just want to keep winning and make ourselves proud.”

Contact Chris Solari for more coverage of the Spartans as they prepare for this high-stakes match.