Tom Izzo delivered some exciting updates for Michigan State basketball fans during his chat with Tim Staudt on Tuesday. Although the Spartans’ journey ended in the Sweet 16 against UConn, the buzz for the 2026-27 season is already building.
Izzo shared that he doesn't expect any departures from his squad after recent meetings, and intriguingly, a former Spartan has expressed regret over transferring. Adding to the excitement, Izzo announced a surprising Thanksgiving Day matchup at Little Caesars Arena against Arkansas.
This matchup was initially expected to take place in Fayetteville as part of a two-year agreement, but instead, it will be held at a “neutral” site in Detroit. This change means Michigan State will enjoy a rare Thanksgiving at home, facing one of college basketball’s elite teams.
For Spartan fans, this is a Thanksgiving treat. The atmosphere in Detroit will be electric with Michigan State battling Arkansas at LCA, while just across the street, the Lions will host their annual Thanksgiving Day game at Ford Field. Expect many empty seats at Thanksgiving dinners this year.
Both Michigan State and Arkansas are shaping up to be national title contenders. Despite losing key players like Darius Acuff and Trevon Brazile, Arkansas is expected to bolster their lineup with top transfers and a top-10 recruiting class. Meanwhile, Michigan State will miss Jaxon Kohler and Carson Cooper, but they’re bringing back an All-American point guard and a top-five recruiting class.
With the Final Four set in Detroit next year, this Thanksgiving showdown could very well be a preview of the 2027 Final Four. It's shaping up to be a must-watch, with two potential top-10 teams clashing in a game that promises to be as thrilling as it is significant.