Michigan State vs Illinois basketball: Time, TV schedule, channel for Spartans-Illini game today

Michigan State men's basketball faces tough challenge against No. 12 Illinois this weekend as they push for NCAA Tournament berth.

Michigan State's men's basketball team is continuing its push for an NCAA Tournament berth, facing one of its toughest challenges of the 2023-24 season this weekend. The Spartans, with a 14-9 overall record and 6-6 in Big Ten play, will take on No. 12 Illinois at the Breslin Center in East Lansing.

This will be the second meeting between the teams this season, with Illinois winning the first game 71-68. Michigan State's A.J. Hoggard missed a game-tying 3-pointer in the final seconds of that match. The loss dropped the Spartans to 1-4 in Big Ten play, but they have since recovered with five wins in their last seven games. However, they suffered a 59-56 loss to Minnesota on Tuesday, despite leading by nine points with 12 minutes remaining.

In the most recent mock bracket by ESPN's Joe Lunardi, Michigan State is a No. 8 seed, just off the bubble for the NCAA Tournament field. A win against Illinois would solidify their position in the projected 68-team field.

Illinois, with five wins in their last six games, will be a tough opponent for Michigan State. The game will be broadcast on CBS, with Andrew Catalon and Steve Lappas providing commentary. Streaming options include Paramount+ and Fubo, both offering free trials for potential subscribers. The game will tip off at 2 p.m. ET from the Breslin Center.

As Michigan State continues its quest for an NCAA Tournament berth, this weekend's game against Illinois is crucial for their chances. A win would improve their position in the projected bracket and provide them with much-needed momentum as they approach the end of the season.

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