Michigan State is going back to the Final Four.
The Spartans beat Louisville 76-70 for a thrilling overtime victory in the East Region on Sunday.
It’s sweet vindication for the Spartans, who had an up-and-down season and came into the East Region as a No. 7 seed.
But Michigan State should be comfortable with its new lofty status. This will be the seventh Final Four for coach Tom Izzo, who led Michigan State to the national title in 2000.
The game was a defensive battle that ended 65-65 in regulation. Senior guard Travis Trice led Michigan State with 17 points. Senior Wayne Blackshear scored 28 for Louisville.
The game was notable for its star coaches as much as the players.
The gravel-voiced Izzo is a straight talker who teaches tough defense. Louisville’s Rick Pitino is known for his dapper wardrobe and smooth personality. He’s won two national championships, most recently with Louisville in 2013.
The Final Four games will be played on Saturday, April 4, in Indianapolis. Michigan State will play the winner of the Duke-Gonzaga game to be played later Sunday. In the first Final Four game, top seed Kentucky will face Wisconsin in a rematch from 2014.
The championship game will be played Monday night, April 6.