2017–18 Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team

The Spartans finished the 2016–17 season 20–15, 10–8 in Big Ten play to finish in a tie for fifth place. In the Big Ten tournament, they defeated Penn State{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400945798|title=Penn State vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – March 9, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-03-13}} in the second round before losing to Minnesota in the quarterfinals.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/03/10/michigan-state-minnesota-big-ten/99025828/|title=MSU vexed by poor showing in Big Ten tournament, now wait for NCAAs|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-03-13|language=en}} They received a bid to the NCAA tournament as a No. 9 seed in the Midwest region, their 20th consecutive appearance in the Tournament. They defeated No. 8-seeded Miami in the first round{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/03/17/michigan-state-spartans-miami-hurricanes-ncaa-tournament/99337852/|title=MSU shakes off bad start, blows away Miami in NCAA tournament, 78–58|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-03-20|language=en}} before losing to No. 1-seeded Kansas in the second round.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400947223|title=Michigan State vs. Kansas – Game Recap – March 19, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-03-20}} The 15 losses by MSU were the second most ever under Tom Izzo, behind only his 16 losses in his first season as head coach at MSU.{{Cite web|url=http://btn.com/2017/04/13/dienhart-michigan-state-is-big-ten-favorite-with-bridges-back/|title=Dienhart: Michigan State is Big Ten favorite with Bridges back|website=Big Ten Network|date=13 April 2017 |access-date=2017-04-14}}

The Spartans were led by freshmen Miles Bridges, 16.9 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, and Nick Ward, 13.9 points and 6.5 rebounds per game.

On September 15, 2016, five-star forward Jaren Jackson Jr. announced that he would attend Michigan State.{{cite web|url=https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/2016/9/15/12927328/5-star-forward-jaren-jackson-jr-commits-to-michigan-state|title=5-star forward Jaren Jackson picks Michigan State|last=O'Donnell|first=Ricky|date=2016-09-15|access-date=2016-09-27}} He is the son of former NBA player Jaren Jackson Sr.{{cite web|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2016/09/15/jaren-jackson-jr-michigan-state/90422830/|title=Michigan State commit Jaren Jackson Jr. a stretch-4 in mold of Bosh|access-date=2016-09-27}} Jackson was listed as the eighth best player in the 2017 final rankings by ESPN.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/sports/2017/04/incoming_michigan_michigan_sta.html|title=Incoming Michigan, Michigan State hoops recruits make big jumps in ESPN's final 2017 rankings|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-04-18|language=en-US}} On September 30, 2016, four-star power forward Xavier Tillman committed to MSU.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2016/10/xavier_tillman.html|title=Xavier Tillman made the easy choice, which is becoming a trend for Michigan State|newspaper=MLive.com|access-date=2016-12-30}} He was considered the best player in the state of Michigan in the 2017 class.{{cite web|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2016/09/30/michigan-state-basketball-xavier-tillman/91314656/|title=Michigan State basketball lands Michigan's top recruit, Xavier Tillman|access-date=2016-09-30}} Tillman was ranked No. 71 in the 2017 final rankings by ESPN. Tillman and Jackson signed National Letters of Intent on November 9, 2016.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/spartans/2016/11/09/msus-izzo-adds-two-forwards-next-season/93566764/|title=MSU hits 'jackpot' as Jackson, Tillman officially join program|newspaper=Detroit News|access-date=2016-11-10}} With just these two signings, MSU's class was listed as the 14th best in the country by ESPN{{Cite web|url=http://insider.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/classrankings|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160805102539/http://insider.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/classrankings|url-status=dead|archive-date=August 5, 2016|title=2017 Basketball Class Rankings|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-05-12}} and 17th by rivals.com.{{Cite web|url=https://basketballrecruiting.rivals.com/news/rivals-2017-basketball-team-rankings-update|title=New Rivals 2017 basketball team rankings released|website=basketballrecruiting.rivals.com|access-date=2017-05-12}}

Two-star point guard Jack Hoiberg, son of Chicago Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg, announced he would attend Michigan State as a preferred walk-on.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/04/16/michigan-state-spartans-basketball-jack-hoiberg/100519532/|title=Jack Hoiberg, son of Bulls coach, to walk on at Michigan State hoops|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-04-26|language=en}} On May 30, the school announced that two-star shooting guard Brock Washington would join the Spartans as a preferred walk-on in 2017.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/05/30/michigan-state-spartans-southfield-christian-brock-washington/356836001/|title=Michigan State adds Southfield Christian guard Brock Washington as preferred walk-on|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-09-11|language=en}}

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In April, 2017, most early pollsters included Michigan State in the preseason top 25 for the 2017–18 season. These included ESPN (No. 12),{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/19047845/college-basketball-way-too-early-top-25-rankings-2017-18|title=College hoops royalty leads Way-Too-Early Top 25 for 2017–18|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-04-14}} Sports Illustrated (No. 8),{{Cite news|url=https://www.si.com/college-basketball/2017/04/05/way-too-early-top-25-power-rankings|title=Way-Too-Early College Basketball Top 25 for 2017–18|last=Davis|first=Seth|work=SI.com|access-date=2017-04-14}} Yahoo! Sports (No. 11),{{Cite news|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/way-too-early-top-25-for-the-2017-18-college-basketball-season-043001438.html|title=Way-too-early top 25 for the 2017–18 college basketball season|access-date=2017-04-14|language=en-US}} USA Today (No. 16),{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2017/04/04/college-basketball-early-preseason-2017-18-top-25-march-madness/99893982/|title=College basketball's super early preseason top 25 teams for the 2017–18 season|work=USA TODAY|access-date=2017-04-14|language=en}} NBC Sports (No. 3),{{cite web|url=http://collegebasketball.nbcsports.com/2017/04/03/2017-18-college-basketball-preseason-top-25/|title=2017–18 College Basketball Preseason Top 25|date=April 3, 2017|publisher=NBC Sports|access-date=April 4, 2017|author=Dauster, Rob}} CBS Sports (No. 3),{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/after-uncs-national-championship-heres-an-early-look-at-next-seasons-top-25-and-1/|title=After UNC's national championship, here's an early look at next season's Top 25 (and 1)|date=April 4, 2017|work=CBS Sports|access-date=April 4, 2017|author=Parrish, Gary}} Sporting News (No. 5){{cite web|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/news/college-basketball-top-25-rankings-2017-2018-kentucky-duke-arizona-kansas-north-carolina-recruiting/2cyez9sq8mei1u5gnhxmbgnfi|title=Arizona, Duke top way-too-early NCAA basketball rankings for 2017–18|date=April 4, 2017|access-date=April 4, 2017|work=Sporting News|author=Fagan, Ryan}} and Bleacher Report (No. 12).{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2699599-preseason-ncaa-basketball-rankings-2017-18-super-early-top-25-experts-poll|title=Preseason NCAA Basketball Rankings 2017–18: Super-Early Top 25 Experts' Poll|date=April 4, 2017|publisher=Bleacher Report|access-date=April 4, 2017|author=Miller, Kerry}} Most of the projections assumed Miles Bridges would not return to East Lansing for his sophomore season. USA Today noted that "leading scorer Miles Bridges is NBA-bound." The Sporting News summarized: "Bridges hasn’t announced his decision yet, but Spartans fans aren’t holding their breath (he’s expected to be a lottery pick)." Following the deadline to withdraw from the NBA draft, many media outlets released updated early top 25 rankings for the 2017–18 season.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/05/31/michigan-state-basketball-phil-knight-tournament/358942001/|title=Michigan State basketball opens PK80 tournament with Georgetown|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-06-01|language=en}} MSU was a consensus top three team by every major outlet: NBC Sports (No. 1),{{Cite web|url=http://collegebasketball.nbcsports.com/2017/05/25/2017-18-college-basketball-preseason-top-25-2/|title=2017–18 College Basketball Preseason Top 25: Post Early Entry Deadline|last=Dauster|first=Rob|date=2017-05-25|website=CollegeBasketballTalk|access-date=2017-06-01|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170529024202/http://collegebasketball.nbcsports.com/2017/05/25/2017-18-college-basketball-preseason-top-25-2/|archive-date=2017-05-29}} Fox Sports (No. 2), Sporting News (No. 2),{{Cite news|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/news/college-basketball-top-25-rankings-2017-2018-arizona-kentucky-duke-kansas-north-carolina-recruiting/9km64x4imz0z1icg9m122z6f4|title=Arizona solidifies spot atop early college basketball rankings for 2017–18|date=2017-05-31|work=Sporting News|access-date=2017-06-01}} ESPN (No. 3),{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/19443560/arizona-rises-top-college-basketball-way-too-early-top-25|title=Post NBA draft deadline college hoops Way-Too-Early Top 25|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-06-01}} CBS Sports (No. 3),{{Cite news|url=http://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-rankings-kentucky-moves-up-to-no-5-in-the-top-25-and-one/|title=College basketball rankings: Kentucky moves up to No. 5 in the Top 25 (and one)|work=CBSSports.com|access-date=2017-06-01|language=en}} and Yahoo! Sports (No. 3).{{Cite news|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/post-draft-deadline-look-college-basketballs-2017-18-preseason-top-25-163900058.html|title=A post-draft deadline look at college basketball's 2017–18 preseason Top 25|access-date=2017-06-01|language=en-US}}

On April 13, 2017, Miles Bridges, considered an NBA lottery pick, announced he would not enter the NBA draft and would return to MSU as a sophomore.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/04/13/miles-bridges-tom-izzo-msu-basketball/100446300/|title=Miles Bridges back to Michigan State: 'I want to win a championship'|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-04-14|language=en}} His return led many to project MSU as a Final Four contender for the 2017–18 season.{{Cite news|url=http://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/miles-bridges-unexpected-return-makes-michigan-state-a-final-four-contender/|title=Miles Bridges' unexpected return makes Michigan State a Final Four contender|work=CBSSports.com|access-date=2017-04-14|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/04/12/miles-bridges-msu-return-couch-column/100386192/|title=Couch: Miles Bridges' return to Michigan State would change everything|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-04-14|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/19152875/miles-bridges-returning-michigan-state-spartans-sophomore-season|title=Bridges skipping draft, returning to Spartans|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-04-14}} Losing only seniors Eron Harris and Alvin Ellis III, the Spartans returned eight of their top 10 players from the prior season. Bridges was also considered a potential candidate for National Player of the Year upon the announcement of his return to Michigan State. The Spartans returned 78% of their scoring and 81% of their rebounding from the previous year.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/04/15/buzz-builds-michigan-state-bridges-back-sophomore-season/100500522/|title=With Bridges back, Michigan State basketball a favorite to win it all|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-04-17|language=en}}

On May 8, redshirt graduate student Ben Carter was granted a sixth year of eligibility after the NCAA granted his medical hardship waiver.{{Cite news|url=http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/050817aaa.html|title=Carter Granted Sixth Year Of Eligibility|access-date=2017-05-08|language=en|archive-date=2017-05-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170512012522/http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/050817aaa.html|url-status=dead}} The Spartans had one remaining open scholarship for the 2017–18 season after Carter was granted eligibility.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/05/ben_carter_1.html|title=Michigan State forward Ben Carter granted sixth year of eligibility from NCAA|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-05-08|language=en-US}} After missing out on late recruiting targets (Brian Bowen, Mark Smith, and Brandon McCoy), the Spartans had one remaining open scholarship.{{Cite news|url=https://www.landof10.com/michigan-state/michigan-state-target-brian-bowen-talks-decision-plans-jaren-jackson-jr|title=5-star Michigan State target Brian Bowen nears decision, talks plans|date=2017-01-22|work=Land of 10|access-date=2017-04-14|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2017/03/29/brian-bowen-michigan-state/99789772/|title=Saginaw native Brian Bowen, considering MSU, plans April decision|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-04-14|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/06/03/brian-bowen-louisville-michigan-state-basketball/368205001/|title=One-time Michigan State hoops recruit Brian Bowen from Saginaw picks Louisville|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-06-21|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/04/when_it_comes_to_2017_pg_mark.html|title=When it comes to 2017 PG Mark Smith, Michigan State is immersed in one uncommon recruitment|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-04-14|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.btpowerhouse.com/2017/4/12/15253414/big-ten-recruiting-mark-smith-visit-michigan-state-illinois-4-star-guard-2017|title=Big Ten Recruiting: 4-Star Guard Mark Smith to take one more visit|date=2017-04-12|website=BT Powerhouse|access-date=2017-04-14}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/college/ct-mark-smith-commits-illinois-spt-0427-20170426-story.html|title=Mark Smith, 2017's Mr. Basketball from Edwardsville, chooses Illinois|last=Ryan|first=Shannon|work=chicagotribune.com|access-date=2017-04-27|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|url=https://spartanavenue.com/2017/04/07/michigan-state-recruiting-reasons-mark-smith-picks-msu/|title=Michigan State Recruiting: 5 reasons why Mark Smith will pick MSU|last=Muldowney|first=Connor|date=2017-04-07|website=Spartan Avenue|access-date=2017-04-14}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/04/10/michigan-state-basketball-brandon-mccoy-mark-smith/100307060/|title=Recruiting: Michigan State target Brandon McCoy nearing decision|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-04-14|language=en}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.theonlycolors.com/2017/4/25/15430946/brandon-mccoy-chooses-unlv-over-michigan-state-oregon|title=Brandon McCoy chooses UNLV over Michigan State, Oregon|date=2017-04-25|website=The Only Colors|access-date=2017-04-26}} It was confirmed on August 24, 2017, that the last remaining scholarship would be given to former walk-on Connor George, son of Cathy George, MSU's volleyball coach at the time.{{Cite web|url=https://twitter.com/ZachBerridge/status/900796519388983296|title=Just confirmed with Conner George – he is now on scholarship with MSU basketball after spending redshirt and RS freshman years as walk-on.|last=Berridge|first=Zach|date=2017-08-24|website=@ZachBerridge|access-date=2017-08-24}}

On May 11, 6-foot-11, 220-pound center Braden Burke announced he would transfer to Michigan State from Robert Morris and be a preferred walk-on.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2017/05/11/braden-burke-michigan-state-robert-morris-transfer/101540398/|title=Michigan State lands transfer Braden Burke from Robert Morris as preferred walk-on|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-05-12|language=en}} Burke will have to sit out the 2017–18 season due to NCAA transfer rules.

On the first day of practice, September 29, 2017, Tom Izzo announced that Lourawls "Tum Tum" Nairn and Miles Bridges had been selected as captains for the team.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2017/09/29/tom-izzo-michigan-state-mens-basketball/718231001/|title=Tom Izzo wants Michigan State men's basketball to embrace lofty expectations|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-10-02|language=en}}

On October 20, MSU held its annual Midnight Madness event at Breslin Center.{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/21096187/michigan-state-spartans-put-show-midnight-madness|title=Spartans put on a show at Midnight Madness|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-10-24}} Tom Izzo did not dress up for the event as he had in the past, but there was a man in a black suit, green tie and extra-large head on his shoulders that was supposed to resemble Izzo.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2017/10/21/michigan-state-msu-madness-basketball-2017/786727001/|title=Tom Izzo, Miles Bridges highlight annual Michigan State Madness|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-10-24|language=en}} Earlier in the day, the school unveiled the $20 million Tom Izzo Hall of History inside the Breslin Center.

On August 28, former MSU head coach Jud Heathcote, who led the Spartans to their first National Championship in 1979, died at the age of 90.{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/20491525/jud-heathcote-coached-michigan-state-ncaa-title-dies-90|title=Ex-Michigan State coach Heathcote dies at 90|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-08-29}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/08/28/former-michigan-state-coach-jud-heathcoate-dies-age-90/610920001/|title=Former Michigan State basketball coach Jud Heathcote dies at age 90|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-08-29|language=en}} "Michigan State has lost one of its icons today," Tom Izzo said in a statement. "And yet, nothing can erase his impact on the program, the players he coached and the coaches he mentored. Spartan basketball is what it is today because of Jud Heathcote." On September 6, 2017, Michigan State announced that it would wear a memorial patch on their uniforms during the season for former head coach Jud Heathcote who died in late August. The team also announced that the February 10, 2018 game against Purdue would be a tribute game to Heathcote.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/09/06/michigan-state-basketball-jud-heathcote-tribute/639631001/|title=Spartans to honor Jud Heathcote with uniform patch, tribute game vs. Purdue|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-09-07|language=en}}

In its preseason college preview, Lindy's Sports ranked the Spartans No. 1 in the country.{{Cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Lindyssportsmag/status/905496533457567744|title=Our #CollegeBasketball preview will be out Sept. 12. Available digitally now. Congrats to @MSU_Basketball on No. 1 ranking. @lindyshoopspic.twitter.com/tuIYVsYPP3|last=#LindysSports|date=2017-09-06|website=@Lindyssportsmag|access-date=2017-09-07}} The publication picked Miles Bridges as Big Ten Player of the Year and the top small forward in the country.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/09/what_national_college_basketba.html#ampshare=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/09/what_national_college_basketba.html|title=What national college basketball preview magazines are saying about Michigan State in 2017–18|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-09-20|language=en-US}} Nick Ward was named preseason second team All-Big Ten center while Jaren Jackson Jr. was named newcomer of the year.

The Blue Ribbon Yearbook ranked MSU No. 2 in its preseason rankings.{{Cite news|url=https://blueribbonyearbook.com/blogs/news/arizona-tops-blue-ribbons-37th-annual-preseason-rankings|title=Arizona Tops Blue Ribbon's 37th Annual Preseason Rankings|work=Blue Ribbon College Basketball Yearbook|access-date=2017-09-20}} The publication listed Miles Bridges as a second team All-American. Athlon Sports ranked the Spartans No. 2 in the country while ranking Bridges as the No. 1 player in the country. Ward and Jackson were selected as second team All-Big Ten and Jackson was named Big Ten newcomer of the year.

Street & Smith ranked MSU No. 3 in the country while naming Bridges first-team All-American.{{Cite news|url=http://www.insidethehall.com/2017/09/11/iu-big-ten-centric-notes-street-smiths-college-basketball-preview/|title=IU, Big Ten centric notes from Street and Smith's college basketball preview|date=2017-09-11|work=Inside the Hall {{!}} Indiana Hoosiers Basketball News, Recruiting and Analysis|access-date=2017-09-20|language=en-US}} On September 26, NBC Sports named Miles Bridges the national preseason player of the year.{{Cite news|url=http://collegebasketball.nbcsports.com/2017/09/26/2017-2018-nbc-sports-college-basketball-preseason-all-american-teams/|title=2017–2018 NBC Sports College Basketball Preseason All-American Teams|date=2017-09-26|work=CollegeBasketballTalk|access-date=2017-10-02|language=en-US}} On October 23, ESPN.com also named Bridges the national preseason player of the year.{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/21075594/espn-college-hoops-preseason-all-american-teams|title=2017 ESPN college basketball preseason All-America teams|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-10-24}} On November 6, Bridges was named an AP preseason All-American, receiving 61 of the possible 65 votes.{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2017/11/06/michigan-states-bridges-tops-ap-preseason-all-america-team/107401888/|title=Michigan State's Miles Bridges headlines AP preseason All-America team|work=USA TODAY|access-date=2017-11-06|language=en}}

Prior to the conference's annual media day, awards and a poll were chosen by a panel of 28 writers, two for each team in the conference.{{Cite news|url=http://www.app.com/story/sports/college/2017/10/16/jerry-carinos-big-east-big-ten-basketball-preseason-rankings-and-honors/767015001/|title=Jerry Carino's Big East, Big Ten basketball preseason rankings and honors|work=Asbury Park Press|access-date=2017-10-17|language=en}} Michigan State was a unanimous selection to win the conference.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/big-ten/2017/10/17/msu-big-ten-poll-bridges-top-player/106733904/|title=MSU No. 1 in Big Ten poll; Bridges is top player|work=Detroit News|access-date=2017-10-17|language=en}} The Spartans' Miles Bridges was also a unanimous selection for Preseason Player of the Year.

At the Big Ten media day, the Spartans were unanimous selections to win the conference.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/sports/2017/10/miles_bridges_named_big_ten_pr.html|title=Miles Bridges named Big Ten preseason Player of the Year, Nick Ward, Moritz Wagner all-conference|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-10-20|language=en-US}} Miles Bridges was named the Preseason Player of the Year.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/10/19/michigan-state-basketball-miles-bridges-big-ten/779350001/|title=Michigan State's Miles Bridges named Big Ten preseason Player of the Year|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-10-20|language=en}} Nick Ward joined Bridges on the preseason All-Big Ten team.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/10/17/michigan-state-basketball-miles-bridges/772972001/|title=Michigan State basketball unanimous pick to win Big Ten title|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-10-20|language=en}}

On October 23, 2017, it was announced that MSU would play Georgia in Grand Rapids, Michigan on October 29 in a charity exhibition game to help raise funds for hurricane relief.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/10/23/michigan-state-georgia-basketball-hurricane-relief/792739001/|title=Michigan State, Georgia to play exhibition in Grand Rapids for storm relief|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-10-24|language=en}}

In the first exhibition game for the Spartans, MSU defeated Ferris State 80–72 on October 26.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/10/27/michigan-state-spartans-basketball-miles-bridges-fall/805603001/|title=Miles Bridges shakes off scary fall; MSU shakes off rust in exhibition|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-10-27|language=en}} Miles Bridges left the game in the first half after falling and cutting his head, but returned in the second half. Cassius Winston led the Spartans in scoring with 24 points as MSU avoided the upset from the Division II Bulldogs.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/spartans/2017/10/26/bridges-bloodied-spartans-survive-scare-vs-ferris-state/107046516/|title='Reality check': Spartans survive scares vs. Ferris State|work=Detroit News|access-date=2017-10-27|language=en}} Freshman Jaren Jackson Jr. had 14 points, eight rebounds, and eight blocks in his MSU debut.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/10/its_not_easy_to_impress_tom_iz.html|title=It's not easy to impress Tom Izzo, but Jaren Jackson did in his Michigan State debut|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-10-27|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/10/27/jaren-jackson-michigan-state-basketball-couch-column/805597001/|title=Couch: If this is Jaren Jackson's everyday motor, then Michigan State has a menace|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-10-27|language=en}}

On October 29, MSU took on Georgia in a hastily planned charity exhibition game in Grand Rapids to benefit hurricane victims.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2017/10/29/michigan-state-basketball-past-georgia-exhibition-80-68/811638001/|title=Miles Bridges pushes Michigan State past Georgia in exhibition, 80–68|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-10-31|language=en}} With four stitches over his right eye from the cut suffered in the first exhibition game, Bridges led the Spartans with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Nick Ward had 13 points while Joshua Langford scored 11 as the Spartans won 80–68.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/2017/10/29/miles-bridges-michigan-state-hold-off-georgia/107147204/|title=Miles Bridges, Michigan State fend off Georgia|work=Detroit News|access-date=2017-10-31|language=en}}

On November 1, it was announced that junior forward Kyle Ahrens would be out indefinitely after aggravating an injury to his right foot.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/11/michigan_state_guard_kyle_ahre.html|title=Michigan State guard Kyle Ahrens aggravates right foot injury, out indefinitely|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-11-01|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://statenews.com/article/2017/11/kyle-ahrens-out-indefintely-after-aggravating-foot-injury-during-practice|title=Kyle Ahrens out indefinitely after aggravating foot injury during practice|work=The State News|access-date=2017-11-01|language=en-us}}

The newly ranked No. 2 Spartans (in AP and Coaches poll) took on Division II Hillsdale on November 3 in their final exhibition game. The Spartans held Hillsdale to approximately 20% shooting as Nick Ward led the Spartans with 14 points and 13 rebounds.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/11/03/michigan-state-basketball-nick-ward/831642001/|title=Michigan State drills Hillsdale in exhibition finale; offense needs work|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-11-06|language=en}} Jaren Jackson added 13 rebounds and 12 points as MSU won easily 75–44.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/11/michigan_state_routs_hillsdale.html|title=Michigan State routs Hillsdale to close preseason|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-11-06|language=en-US}}

On November 10, the Spartans opened the regular season at home against North Florida.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2017/11/10/michigan-state-north-florida-mens-basketball/854284001/|title=No. 2 Michigan State basketball kicks off season with rout of North Florida, 98–66|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-11-13|language=en}} Miles Bridges scored 20 points and Jaren Jackson Jr. had 13 rebounds as the Spartans routed the Ospreys 98–66. Each Spartan starter scored in double figures: Nick Ward (16), Cassius Winston (12), and Joshua Langford (13).{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986324|title=North Florida vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – November 10, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-11-13}} Ward made all six of his shots as the team shot 78% from the free throw line in the easy win.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/11/michigan_state_cruise_past_nor.html|title=Michigan State cruises past North Florida in season-opener|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-11-13|language=en-US}}

In a matchup of No. 1 versus No. 2 at the Champions Classic in Chicago on November 14, the Spartans struggled with Duke's 2–3 zone.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/11/15/michigan-state-spartans-basketball-duke-blue-devils/865213001/|title=No. 2 Michigan State 'played really, really bad and lost' to No. 1 Duke|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-11-15|language=en}} Bridges, Jackson Jr., and Ward each scored 19 points for the Spartans who shot 50% from the field in the game.{{Cite news|url=https://247sports.com/college/michigan-state/article/michigan-state-basketball-tom-izzo-tired-of-holding-my-own-takes-blame-in-loss-to-duke-110520371/|title=Michigan State basketball: Tom Izzo tired of 'holding my own,' takes blame in loss to Duke|access-date=2017-11-15}} However, Duke's Grayson Allen scored 37 points and MSU lost the rebound battle and allowed 25 offensive rebounds as they fell 88–81.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986058|title=Duke vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – November 14, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-11-15}} Head coach Tom Izzo blamed himself for the loss as he fell to 1–11 all time against Duke. The loss moved MSU to 1–1 on the season.

On November 16, the school announced that forward Kenny Goins had suffered a knee strain in the Duke game and would miss several weeks due to the injury.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/11/16/michigan-state-basketball-kenny-goins-injury/871531001/|title=Michigan State's Kenny Goins' knee injury a 'bump in the road'|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-11-17|language=en}}

Also on November 16, Nike announced uniforms for those teams participating in the Phil Knight Invitational.{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/pk80-jerseys-nike-duke-michigan-state-butler-uconn-oklahoma/|title=LOOK: Nike unveils custom uniforms for teams competing in PK80 tournament|work=CBSSports.com|access-date=2017-11-17|language=en}} MSU's uniforms were green with bronze highlights.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/11/see_michigan_states_new_altern.html|title=See Michigan State's new alternate uniforms for the Phil Knight Invitational|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-11-17|language=en-US}}

The Spartans returned home to face Stony Brook in a campus site game for the Phil Knight Invitational on November 19. MSU struggled early, trailing by as many as eight before leading by six at the half.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986367|title=Stony Brook vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – November 19, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-11-20}} The Spartans pulled away in the second half, but suffered a scare as Miles Bridges went down with an ankle injury with over eight minutes remaining in the game. Bridges, who scored 20 points, did not return.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/11/19/michigan-state-basketball-stony-brook-quick-takes-couch/879014001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's win over Stony Brook|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-11-20|language=en}} Nick Ward led all scorers with 22 and Joshua Langford scored a career-high 19 in the 93–71 win.{{Cite news|url=http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/recaps/111917aaa.html|title=Langford's Career Night Leads Michigan State Past Stony Brook, 93–71|access-date=2017-11-20|archive-date=2017-11-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171123081329/http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/recaps/111917aaa.html|url-status=dead}} The MSU sophomores scored 74 of the team's 93 points.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/11/michigan_state_stony_brook_bas.html|title=Sophomore class tallies 74 points as Michigan State outguns Stony Brook, 93–71|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-11-20|language=en-US}} After the game, it was announced that Bridges was day-to-day with an ankle sprain.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/11/19/michigan-state-basketball-stony-brook/879344001/|title=Michigan State's Miles Bridges injures ankle in win Sunday, day-to-day|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-11-20|language=en}}

On November 20, Tom Izzo announced that Bridges' x-rays were negative on his ankle and the swelling had gone down.{{Cite news|url=https://247sports.com/college/michigan-state/article/michigan-state-spartans-basketball-tom-izzo-provides-update-on-miles-bridges-sprained-ankle-110812760/|title=Michigan State Spartans basketball: Tom Izzo provides update on Miles Bridges' sprained ankle|access-date=2017-11-21}} He said that they would not know for a day or two if Bridges would miss any time.

The Spartans traveled to Portland, Oregon to participate in the Phil Knight Invitational in honor of Nike co-founder Phil Knight's 80th birthday. The tournament, which began on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, ran through November 26. Bridges did not play in the opening round game of the tournament on November 23 as MSU took on DePaul.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986381|title=Michigan State vs. DePaul – Game Recap – November 23, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-11-27}} The Spartans struggled in the first half and went to halftime tied at 31 with the Blue Demons.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/spartans/2017/11/24/conner-georges-inspired-play-gives-msu-lift-depaul-win/107989252/|title=Conner George's inspired play gives MSU lift in DePaul win|work=Detroit News|access-date=2017-11-27|language=en}} Matt McQuaid, who started for Bridges, stepped up and scored a career-high 20 points on six of eight shooting from behind the three-point line.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/2017/11/24/strong-second-half-carries-msu-depaul/107976530/|title=Matt McQuaid rescues Michigan State in win over DePaul|work=Detroit News|access-date=2017-11-27|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/11/24/michigan-state-basketball-depaul-three-quick-takes-couch/891766001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's win over DePaul at the PK80|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-11-27|language=en}} The Spartans held DePaul to 25.5% shooting from the field as they pulled away in the second half for a 73–51 win.

The next day in the second round of the Phil Knight Invitational, Bridges did play, but did not start as MSU struggled in the first half again, leading by only one at the half.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2017/11/25/michigan-state-uconn-basketball-late-gamer/894371001/|title=Cassius Winston plays 'best game of career' in carrying Spartans past UConn in PK80, 77–57|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-11-27|language=en}} Bridges scored only six points in 17 minutes of play, but Cassius Winston had his best game offensively as a Spartan, scoring a career-high 28 points on 12 of 15 shooting.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400999748|title=Connecticut vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – November 24, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-11-27}} MSU's defense again dominated the game, holding UConn to only 35% from the floor as the Spartans again pulled away in the second half for the 77–57 win.{{Cite news|url=http://www.courant.com/sports/uconn-mens-basketball/hc-sp-uconn-men-michigan-state-1126-story.html|title=Michigan State Overwhelms UConn Men In Second Half, Wins 77–57 in PK80|last=Amore|first=Dom|work=courant.com|access-date=2017-11-27|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.nhregister.com/sports/article/Is-Michigan-State-a-UConn-rival-in-men-s-12382272.php|title=Bigger, stronger, better: Michigan State is too much for UConn men to handle|work=New Haven Register|access-date=2017-11-27}}

In the championship game of the Victory Bracket of the Phil Knight Invitational on November 26, the Spartans took on No. 9-ranked North Carolina looking to avoid a poor first half for the third straight game. Bridges returned to the starting lineup after coming off the bench against UConn in the previous game.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/11/26/michigan-state-north-carolina-basketball-three-quick-takes-couch/896550001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's win over North Carolina in the PK80|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-11-27|language=en}} MSU's defense was again the star of the show, holding UNC to a school-record low for shooting percentage as they shot 24.6% from the field, including 5.6% from three-point land.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/11/27/michigan-state-basketball-north-carolina-defense-rebounding/896815001/|title=Michigan State's 'dirty work' stifles North Carolina for PK80 title|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-11-27|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/the-worst-shooting-in-unc-history-gives-michigan-state-pk80-victory-bracket-title/|title=The worst shooting in UNC history gives Michigan State PK80 Victory bracket title|work=CBSSports.com|access-date=2017-11-27|language=en}} Joshua Langford had the big offensive game for the Spartans, scoring a career-high 23 points as the Spartans dominated from the outset and led by 14 at the half.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/11/michigan_state_north_carolina_1.html|title=Smothering defensive effort lifts Michigan State past North Carolina in PK80 final|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-11-27|language=en-US}} MSU did struggle with turnovers, giving the ball up 24 times in the game. Despite that, the Spartans stretched the lead to as many as 21 in the second half, beating UNC 63–45 and marked Tom Izzo's first win over North Carolina since 2000 and first win against UNC when coached by Roy Williams.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=401001005|title=North Carolina vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – November 26, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-11-27}} The win gave the Spartans the Phil Knight Invitational Victory Bracket championship and Cassius Winston was named the bracket's MVP. The win moved MSU to 5–1 on the season.

On the final day of November, the Spartans returned home to welcome No. 5-ranked Notre Dame to East Lansing, marking only the second time the teams had faced each other since 1979.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/11/michigan_state_basketball_game_161.html|title=Michigan State Basketball Gameday: Notre Dame makes first trek to East Lansing since 1974|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-12-01|language=en-US}} The No. 3-ranked Spartans jumped out to an early lead and led by as many as 22 in the first half while enjoying a 20-point halftime lead, 46–26.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986109|title=Notre Dame vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – November 30, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-12-01}} Notre Dame was able to move within eight points in the second half, but the Spartans, led by Winston and Langford's 17 points each, were able to pull away for an easy win.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/11/30/michigan-state-basketball-notre-dame-game/911657001/|title=Michigan State puts on a show, topples Notre Dame, 81–63|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-12-01|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/news/ncaa-basketball-acc-big-10-challenge-michigan-state-score-notre-dame-three-takeaways/g58r87tuu1gz19mmq5qnpnugh|title=Three takeaways from No. 3 Michigan State's big win over No. 5 Notre Dame|date=2017-11-30|work=Sporting News|access-date=2017-12-01|archive-date=2017-12-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171202052448/http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/news/ncaa-basketball-acc-big-10-challenge-michigan-state-score-notre-dame-three-takeaways/g58r87tuu1gz19mmq5qnpnugh|url-status=dead}} Bridges added 14 points as MSU buried nine three-pointers in the 81–63 win.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/11/30/michigan-state-notre-dame-basketball-big-ten-acc-couch-quick-takes/911857001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 81–63 win over Notre Dame|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-12-01|language=en}} The win moved the Spartans to 6–1 on the season and a 2–1 record against top ten-ranked teams (only losing to Duke).

Due to the Big Ten tournament being held one week earlier to be held at Madison Square Garden, the Spartans began conference play on December 3 against Nebraska. MSU won its sixth straight game, all by at least 18 points, in an 86–57 thrashing of Nebraska.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/12/michigan_state_opens_big_ten_p_1.html|title=Michigan State opens Big Ten play by thrashing Nebraska|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-12-04|language=en-US}} The Spartans held Nebraska to 27% shooting from the field as the MSU defense again dominated the game.{{Cite news|url=http://journalstar.com/sports/huskers/mens-basketball/michigan-state-clamps-down-on-husker-hoops-in-big-ten/article_384e3057-00c3-51a9-adac-ae33d498f170.html|title=Michigan State clamps down on Husker hoops in Big Ten opener|last=Star|first=Chris Basnett {{!}} Lincoln Journal|work=JournalStar.com|access-date=2017-12-04|language=en}} Nick Ward, who was in foul trouble, scored 22 points in only 16 minutes to lead the Spartans.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986399|title=Nebraska vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – December 3, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-12-04}} Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 15 with 10 rebounds and three blocks. The win moved the Spartans to 7–1 on the season and 1–0 in Big Ten play.

Two days later on December 5, the Spartans traveled to face Rutgers in New Jersey for the Spartans first true road game of the season. MSU fell behind early 8–0 to the Scarlet Knights, but managed to retake the lead midway through the first half.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986406|title=Michigan State vs. Rutgers – Game Recap – December 5, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-12-06}} Rutgers rallied to tie the game at 26 at the half. In the second half, the Spartans were unable to pull away though they had the lead for most of the half as both teams struggled offensively.{{Cite news|url=http://www.app.com/story/sports/college/2017/12/05/rutgers-basketball-tooth-and-nail-loss-no-3-michigan-state/922311001/|title=Rutgers basketball: A tooth-and-nail loss to No. 3 Michigan State|work=Asbury Park Press|access-date=2017-12-06|language=en}} Miles Bridges scored 21 points while Jackson Jr. tied a single-game Spartan record with eight blocks, but MSU still needed two big three-pointers later in the game by Cassius Winston to pull out the 10-point victory, 62–52.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/12/05/michigan-state-basketball-rutgers-game/925388001/|title=Michigan State basketball survives Rutgers scare, 62–52|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-12-06|language=en}} MSU limited Rutgers to 25% shooting on the night, but only made 38% of their own shots while failing to win the rebound battle as both teams had 45 rebounds.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/game?gameId=400986406|title=Michigan State vs. Rutgers – Game Summary – December 5, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-12-06}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/12/michigan_state_survives_scare.html|title=Michigan State survives scare from Rutgers to win seventh straight|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-12-06|language=en-US}} Nick Ward, who struggled in the first half, only played a minute and a half in the second half and sat on the bench dejectedly for most of the half.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/12/msus_nick_ward_defends_his_pla.html|title=MSU's Nick Ward defends his play this season after frustrating 11-minute game vs. Rutgers|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-12-06|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=https://spartanavenue.com/2017/12/05/michigan-state-basketball-worried-nick-ward-frustration/|title=Michigan State Basketball: Should we be worried about Nick Ward's frustration?|date=2017-12-05|work=Spartan Avenue|access-date=2017-12-06|language=en-US}} Izzo said he just had a bad game.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/spartans/2017/12/05/listless-defense-costs-msus-nick-ward-court-time/108355510/|title=Listless defense costs MSU's Nick Ward court time|work=Detroit News|access-date=2017-12-06|language=en}} The win was the Spartans seventh in a row and left the Spartans at 8–1 on the season and 2–0 in Big Ten play.

The Spartans returned home to play Southern Utah on December 9. Nick Ward scored 17 points a week after only playing 11 minutes while Miles Bridges and Jaren Jackson Jr. each added 17 as well.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/12/09/michigan-state-basketball-southern-utah/937903001/|title=Michigan State basketball continues win streak, beats Southern Utah, 88–63|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-12-11|language=en}} Despite this, the Thunderbirds were within five points of the Spartans in the second half before MSU pulled away.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/spartans/2017/12/09/msus-dispatches-southern-utah-eyes-no-1-ranking/108475796/|title='Love that bullseye': No. 1 ranking could follow MSU win|work=Detroit News|access-date=2017-12-11|language=en}} Jackson added 13 rebounds and five blocks while Cassius Winston scored 15 points with five assists as the Spartans won 88–63.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/12/michigan_state_pulls_away_late_1.html|title=Michigan State pulls away late to top Southern Utah|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-12-11|language=en-US}} The win, MSU's eighth in a row, moved the Spartans to 9–1 on the season.

Following losses by No. 1 Duke and No. 2 Kansas, it was likely MSU would become the No. 1 team in the country on December 11. However, Villanova was named the No. 1 team in the country in both polls, leapfrogging MSU.{{Cite news|url=https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/2017/12/11/16761516/2017-college-basketball-rankings-polls-villanova-arizona-state|title=Rankings: Villanova is your new No. 1, Arizona State crashes top 5|work=SBNation.com|access-date=2017-12-11}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2017/12/11/villanova-climbs-no-1-usa-today-sports-mens-basketball-poll/940174001/|title=Villanova climbs to No. 1 in USA TODAY Sports men's basketball poll|work=USA TODAY|access-date=2017-12-11|language=en}}

On December 16, the Spartans participated in the Hitachi College Basketball Showcase held at the new Little Caesars Arena in Detroit and took on Oakland. MSU took the early lead in the game, led by Nick Ward who scored 15 points and brought down 15 rebounds in the game.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/12/16/michigan-state-basketball-oakland-grit/958650001/|title=Michigan State basketball grinds it out vs. Oakland, 86–73, after foul|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-12-18|language=en}} The Spartans continued their strong defensive effort, holding the Grizzlies to 31.3% shooting in the first half. Despite this, MSU only led by five at the half. In the second half, Oakland's hot shooting (40% overall and 46.7% from three) kept the game close every time the Spartans tried to pull away.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986438|title=Michigan State vs. Oakland – Game Recap – December 16, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-12-18}} However, Cassius Winston took over the Spartans, scoring the final 14 points for MSU as the Spartans pulled away for an 86–73 win.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/12/16/michigan-state-basketball-oakland-three-quick-takes-graham-couch/958244001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 86–73 win over Oakland|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-12-18|language=en}} Winston scored 19 in the game to lead MSU, but committed six turnovers. Miles Bridges added 11 points while Josh Langford tallied 17. Jaren Jackson Jr. blocked four shots and scored 10 in the win.{{Cite news|url=http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/recaps/121617aaa.html|title=Five in Double Figures as Michigan State Beats Oakland, 86–73|access-date=2017-12-18|archive-date=2017-12-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171217050736/http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/recaps/121617aaa.html|url-status=dead}} The win moved MSU to 16–0 all-time against Oakland. MSU won its ninth game in the row and moved to 10–1 on the season.

Returning home, the Spartans welcomed Houston Baptist the Breslin Center on December 18. Miles Bridges tied a career high with 33 points while Nick Ward was perfect from the field in scoring 20 points.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/spartans/2017/12/18/michigan-state-pummels-houston-baptist-107-62/108731882/|title=Michigan State wins by 45 but effort disappoints Tom Izzo|work=Detroit News|access-date=2017-12-19|language=en}} The Spartans set a school record with 16 blocks in the game, Jaren Jackson Jr. had six while Ward had five.{{Cite news|url=https://www.theonlycolors.com/2017/12/18/16793420/roundball-recap-msu-basketball-remains-good-at-basketball-beats-houston-baptist|title=Roundball recap: MSU basketball remains good at basketball, beats Houston Baptist|work=The Only Colors|access-date=2017-12-19}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/12/18/michigan-state-basketball-houston-baptist-couch-three-quick-takes/962868001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 107–62 win over Houston Baptist|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-12-19|language=en}} The Spartans had 30 assists on 36 made baskets while Cassius Winston also set a career high with 12 assists. MSU again played well defensively, holding HBU to 31.6% shooting while Tom Izzo's team shot 70% in the first half.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986445|title=Houston Baptist vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – December 18, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-12-19}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/12/18/michigan-state-basketball-houston-baptist/963383001/|title=Miles Bridges, Michigan State basketball blast Houston Baptist, 107–62|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-12-19|language=en}} Houston would finish the game at 28.4% in the game as the Spartans kept up their nation-leading field goal defense. MSU blew out the Huskies 107–62, the most points the Spartans had scored since 2011, moving to 11–1 on the season.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/12/michigan_state_puts_up_107_poi.html|title=Michigan State puts up 107 points in 45-point win over Houston Baptist|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-12-19|language=en-US}} Despite the easy win, Izzo was disappointed with the Spartans' performance, especially with the fact that HBU out-rebounded MSU on the offensive glass 24–10.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/12/18/michigan-state-basketball-houston-baptist-tom-izzo/963704001/|title=Tom Izzo: Spartans not 2nd-best team in the country despite blowout|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-12-19|language=en}}

On December 21, Long Beach State had no better luck against the Spartans in East Lansing. Miles Bridges scored 17 points and had nine rebounds while Josh Langford also scored 17.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/12/21/michigan-state-spartans-long-beach-state-49-ers/975515001/|title=Michigan State basketball blasts Long Beach State before break, 102–60|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-12-22|language=en}} Cassius Winston dished out eight assists to go along with 13 points and Jaren Jackson Jr. added 13 points and four blocks.{{Cite news|url=https://www.landof10.com/michigan-state/michigan-state-long-beach-state-live-updates-score-dec-21|title=Michigan State-Long Beach State: Recap, score, analysis|date=2017-12-21|work=Land of 10|access-date=2017-12-22|language=en-US}} Nick Ward continued his torrid shooting, making seven of his eight shots (making 17 of his last 18 shots) to score 16 in a 102–60 romp over the 49ers.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/12/michigan_state_shoots_past_lon.html|title=Michigan State shoots past Long Beach State for 11th straight win|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-12-22|language=en-US}} Tom Izzo felt better about his team's performance, but still was upset with the team's 12 turnover, nine coming in the first half.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/12/21/michigan-state-basketball-long-beach-state-three-quick-takes/967818001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 102–60 win over Long Beach State|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2017-12-22|language=en}} The Spartans scored over 100 points in back-to-back games for the first time since 2004. The win marked MSU's 11th straight, moving their record to 12–1 on the season.

On December 28, the Spartans welcomed Cleveland State to the Breslin Center. The Spartans left little doubt in this game as they jumped to an early 32–6 lead on the Vikings. MSU made its first seven shots of the game and shot 72.4% from the field in the first half, leading 63–25 at the half.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/12/michigan_state_demolishes_clev.html|title=Michigan State demolishes Cleveland State behind 63-point first half|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/12/29/couch-3-quick-takes-michigan-states-111-61-win-over-cleveland-state/991499001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 111–61 win over Cleveland State|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en}} The 63 points scored in the first half is believed to be the most scored in any half under Tom Izzo. Josh Langford scored 23 to lead the Spartans as they topped 100 points for the third consecutive game, winning easily 111–61.{{Cite news|url=https://www.landof10.com/michigan-state/michigan-state-cleveland-state-live-updates-score-dec-29|title=Michigan State-Cleveland State: Recap, score, analysis|date=2017-12-29|work=Land of 10|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en-US}} The Spartans continued their strong defensive play, holding Cleveland State to just 32% shooting in the game. Nick Ward made seven of his eight shots, scoring 22 points while Miles Bridges added 18.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/2017/12/29/michigan-state-makes-easy-work-cleveland-state/109012752/|title=Spartans pleased with energy, focus in victory|work=Detroit News|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en}} The win moved the Spartans to 13–1 on the season with one non-conference game remaining.

On New Year's Eve, Savannah State traveled to East Lansing for the Spartans final non-conference game of the season. MSU jumped to an early lead as Savannah State, number one in the country in three-point attempts, struggled early.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/12/michigan_state_closes_non-conf.html|title=Michigan State closes non-conference play with 56-point win over Savannah State|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en-US}} However, the Tigers got hot near the midpoint of the first half and kept the score close. The Spartans turned the ball over 10 times in the first ten minutes of the game, but were still able to lead by 13 at half time, 51–38.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986480|title=Savannah State vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – December 31, 2017 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-01-02}} MSU turned it on in the second half, outscoring the Tigers 57–14, including a 32–0 stretch to close the game and win 108–52.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2017/12/31/michigan-state-basketball-savannah-state-couch-quick-takes-column/993385001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 108–52 win over Savannah State|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en}} The Spartans scored over 100 points for the fourth game in a row, the longest streak in school history.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2017/12/31/michigan-state-basketball-savannah-state/993435001/|title=Sloppy Michigan State basketball starts slow, crushes Savannah State|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en}} Miles Bridges had a career-high 21 rebounds, the most by a Spartan since 1976; his 19 defensive rebounds tied the mark set by Antonio Smith in 1997. Nick Ward scored 21 points to lead the Spartans and added 10 rebounds. Ward went nine for nine from the floor on the night and has made 32 of his last 34 shots in the last four games. Cassius Winston dished out a career-high 13 assists to go with his 16 points in the blowout. The win moved the Spartans 14–1 on the season and on the verge of being named the number one team in the country following a loss by Villanova.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2017/12/31/michigan-state-basketball-savannah-state/993737001/|title=Michigan State may be new No. 1 after 4th straight 100-pointer, blowout|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en}}

On January 1, 2018, the Spartans were named the number one team in the country in the weekly AP poll.{{Cite news|url=https://www.ncaa.com/news/basketball-men/article/2018-01-01/college-basketball-rankings-michigan-state-new-no-1-oklahoma|title=College basketball rankings: Michigan State the new No. 1; Oklahoma rises|date=2018-01-01|work=NCAA.com|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/21933388/michigan-state-no-1-ap-men-poll-villanova-drops-no-3|title=Mich. State to No. 1 in AP poll, Nova to No. 3|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-01-02}} On January 2, MSU was also named number one in the weekly coaches' poll.{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2018/01/02/michigan-state-new-no-1-mens-basketball-poll/995870001/|title=Michigan State takes No. 1 spot in USA TODAY men's basketball poll after Villanova falls|work=USA TODAY|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en}}

On January 4, the Spartans welcomed Maryland to East Lansing as conference play resumed.{{Cite news|url=https://www.landof10.com/michigan-state/michigan-state-spartans-basketball-big-ten-conference-2017-18|title=Michigan State resumes Big Ten play looking for challengers after finding few early on|date=2018-01-02|work=Land of 10|access-date=2018-01-02|language=en-US}} Maryland started well, shooting over 60% from the field in the first 10 minutes of the game. MSU, however, used a 15–0 run near the end of the first half to take a 13-point lead at the half.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/01/04/michigan-state-basketball-maryland-basketball/1006230001/|title=Michigan State proves worthy of No. 1, shells Maryland, 91–61|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-01-05|language=en}} MSU continued its strong play in the second half, routing the Terrapins 91–61.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986487|title=Maryland vs. Michigan State – Game Recap – January 4, 2018 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-01-05}} The Spartans made 16 of 28 three-point attempts while also hitting on 16 of 28 two-point shots. Jaren Jackson Jr. hit five threes, while Kenny Goins made his first career three-point basket, hitting a second three-pointer a few minutes later.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/01/04/couch-3-quick-takes-michigan-states-91-61-win-over-maryland/1006177001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 91–61 win over Maryland|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-01-05|language=en}} Nick Ward continued his strong play, missing only two shots while scoring a team-leading 16 points.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2018/01/05/michigan-state-maryland-basketball/1006483001/|title=Balanced effort by No. 1 Michigan State basketball overpowers Maryland|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-01-05|language=en}} Miles Bridges contributed 15 points, six rebounds, and seven assists. Cassius Winston had eight assists as the Spartans had assists on 30 of their 32 field goals. Maryland ended up shooting only 37.7% from the field while the Spartans shot 57.1%. The Spartans did turn the ball over seven times in the game, though six of those occurred in the first half. The win marked MSU's 14th straight win and their seventh straight game scoring over 80 points. MSU remained in first place in the Big Ten with a 3–0 record, moving to 15–1 overall.

MSU took to the road for only the second time on the season, traveling to face Ohio State on January 7. MSU started well, taking an 11–4 lead before Ohio State battled back.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/01/07/michigan-state-ohio-state-basketball-quick-takes-couch-column/1011508001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 80–64 loss at Ohio State – Izzo's bad day, etc.|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en}} A close game for most of the first half, the Buckeyes took a 12-point lead to the half behind some good shooting and a buzzer-beating three as the half ended.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986494|title=Michigan State vs. Ohio State – Game Recap – January 7, 2018 – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-01-08}} MSU failed to respond in the second half as the Buckeyes continued their run, pushing the lead to as many as 23. MSU, shooting over 50% on the season, shot only 39% from the field in the game while OSU shot over 52% in the 80–64 blowout.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/01/07/michigan-state-basketball-ohio-state-game/1011443001/|title=No. 1 Michigan State Spartans blown away at Ohio State Buckeyes, 80–64|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en}} Nick Ward only attempted one shot for the Spartans and settled for three points in the game. Miles Bridges had 17, but did not shoot well, making only seven of 19 shots. Josh Langford added 17 as well, but it was not enough for the Spartans who turned the ball over 12 times.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/2018/01/07/stunner-no-1-michigan-state-crushed-ohio-state/109254338/|title='Welcome to being good': No. 1 MSU crushed by OSU|work=Detroit News|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en}} After assisting on 30 of 32 baskets against Maryland, the Spartans only had 13 assists on 23 made baskets in the loss. The loss dropped the Spartans out of first place in the Big Ten and dropped them from the No. 1 ranking in the country as they fell to 15–2, 3–1 overall.{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/ohio-state-routs-no-1-ranked-michigan-state-to-cap-weekend-filled-with-upsets/|title=Ohio State routs No. 1 ranked Michigan State to cap weekend filled with upsets|work=CBSSports.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en}}

On January 10, MSU looked to return to their winning ways with Rutgers traveling to the Breslin Center. The Spartans started well, taking an early lead, but Rutgers fought back, staying within seven at the half.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/01/11/michigan-state-basketball-rutgers/1023373001/|title=MSU's Bridges, Langford recover to rescue team in OT against Rutgers, 76-72|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-01-11|language=en}} Miles Bridges struggled on the night, especially in the first half as he failed to score.{{Cite news|url=http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/01/10/michigan-state-rutgers-basketball-couch-quick-takes-column/1022973001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 76-72 overtime win over Rutgers|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-01-11|language=en}} In the second half, MSU had several long scoreless streaks which allowed the Knights to tie the game and even take the lead near the end of the half. With just over eight second remaining in the game and the Spartans trailing by one point, Bridges was fouled, but only made one of the two free throws to tie the game.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986499|title=Rutgers vs. Michigan State - Game Recap - January 10, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-01-11}} On the ensuing play, Rutgers missed a game-winning shot to force overtime.{{Cite news|url=http://www.app.com/story/sports/college/2018/01/10/rutgers-basketball-nearly-pulls-shocker-fourth-ranked-michigan-state/1020245001/|title=Rutgers basketball nearly pulls shocker at fourth-ranked Michigan State|work=Asbury Park Press|access-date=2018-01-11|language=en}} In the first overtime game of the season for the Spartans, Josh Langford hit a big three-pointer to give the Spartans the lead and Cassius Winston hit six free throws down the stretch to seal the 76–72 win for the Spartans. The disappointing performance by the Spartans after getting blown out in the previous game was also the closest game of the season for the Spartans. Nick Ward led the Spartans with 17 and Bridges rebounded to score 11. The win moved the Spartans to 4–1 in conference play and 16–2 overall.

The Spartans next welcomed rival Michigan to the Breslin Center on January 13. MSU played well in the first half, but Michigan kept the score close. In the second half, Michigan's defense continued to dominate MSU and Michigan answered every run by the Spartans. Though MSU shot a better percentage than the Wolverines, Michigan took 11 more shots, thanks in large part to MSU's 18 turnovers in the game. Nick Ward had a disappointing game, only scoring four points in 14 minutes while Cassius Winston only had two assists to go along with four turnovers. Michigan pulled away for the 82–72 win, marking MSU's second loss in the previous three games. Miles Bridges and Jaren Jackson Jr. each had 19 to lead the Spartans, but it was not enough as Michigan big man Moritz Wagner scored 27. The loss dropped MSU to 4–2 in conference and two games behind conference leaders, Purdue and Ohio State.

After a week off, the Spartans returned to play on January 19 against Indiana in East Lansing.{{Cite news|url=https://www.landof10.com/michigan-state/michigan-state-indiana-transition-running-practice-success|title=Michigan State's 'week of hell' makes win over Indiana a breeze|date=2018-01-20|work=Land of 10|access-date=2018-01-22|language=en-US}} The Spartans appeared to return to form as they dominated the Hoosiers for much of the game, leading by 19 at the half and by as many as 30 in the second half.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/01/19/couch-3-quick-takes-michigan-states-85-57-win-over-indiana/1050230001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 85-57 win over Indiana|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-01-22|language=en}} Miles Bridges led all scorers with 22 while Nick Ward added 18 points and 13 rebounds in the win.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/spartans/2018/01/20/spartans-put-priority-getting-ward-involved-early/109630276/|title=Spartans put priority on getting Ward involved early|work=Detroit News|access-date=2018-01-22|language=en}} Jaren Jackson Jr. added three blocks which tied the MSU single-season record for blocks by freshman.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/01/michigan_state_indiana_basketb_2.html|title=Michigan State returns to winning ways by dismantling Indiana|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-01-22|language=en-US}} Cassius Winston returned to form as well, dishing out eight assists while only committing one turnover. MSU moved to 17–3, 5–2 on the season with the 85–57 win. The Spartans wore special uniforms for the game, black with bright green numbers.{{Cite news|url=https://247sports.com/college/michigan-state/article/michigan-state-spartans-basketball-msu-wearing-new-uniforms-vs-indiana-113945311/|title=Michigan State Spartans basketball: MSU wearing new uniforms vs. Indiana|access-date=2018-01-22}}

MSU returned to the road to face Illinois on January 22 at the State Farm Center. The Spartans struggled with turnovers throughout the game, turning the ball over 15 times in the first half. However, MSU shot 15 of 19 from the field in the first half, led by Miles Bridges 17 points in the half to take a 39–32 halftime lead.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/01/michigan_state_shoots_its_way.html|title=Michigan State shoots its way to 13-point road win over Illinois|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-01-23|language=en-US}} MSU took control of the game in the second half as Jaren Jackson Jr. scored a career-high 21 with 11 rebounds and six blocks to lead the Spartans to an 18-point lead.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/01/michigan_state_sees_growth_aft.html|title=Michigan State sees growth after surviving dreadful start, 25 turnovers|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-01-23|language=en-US}} Turnovers again became a problem late in the second half as the Illini narrowed the lead to eight, but Jackson and Bridges hit 10 straight free throws down the stretch to allow the Spartans to escape with an 87–74 win.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/01/23/michigan-state-spartans-basketball-illinois/1056762001/|title=Turnovers aplenty, but Michigan State will take 87-74 win at Illinois|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-01-23|language=en}} The Spartans shot 68.2% from the field in the game, the best shooting percentage of any opponent at the State Farm Center.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/spartans/2018/01/22/msu-scores-untidy-road-victory-over-illinois/109726720/|title=Torrid shooting saves MSU in untidy road win over Illinois|work=Detroit News|access-date=2018-01-23|language=en}} MSU dominated the boards, out-rebounding Illinois 37–15 in the win and Bridges finished with 31 points.{{Cite news|url=http://herald-review.com/sports/illini/no-michigan-state-too-much-for-illini/article_35bc2a4e-53b7-53a5-9ffa-e8cc39e65694.html|title=No. 6 Michigan State too much for Illini|last=Review|first=JOEY WAGNER Herald &|work=Herald-Review.com|access-date=2018-01-23|language=en}} Jackson's six blocks moved him within one for the MSU single-season record. The Spartans turned the ball over 25 times, led by Cassius Winston's eight, the most for a Spartan team since 2005. The win moved the Spartans to 18–3, 6–2 in Big Ten play on the season.

The Spartans returned home to face the Wisconsin on January 26. Prior to the game, reports surfaced that Tom Izzo's program had several sexual assault allegations over the prior ten years, though Izzo was never accused of wrongdoing.{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/22214566/pattern-denial-inaction-information-suppression-michigan-state-goes-larry-nassar-case-espn|title=OTL: Spartan secrets extend far beyond Larry Nassar|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-01-29}} MSU Athletic Director Mark Hollis also resigned early in the day.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986531|title=Wisconsin vs. Michigan State - Game Recap - January 26, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-01-29}} Due to this and the Larry Nassar sexual assault scandal, the Izzone wore teal shirts to show support for survivors of sexual assault.{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/michigan-state-university-fans-wear-teal-in-support-of-sexual-abuse-victims/|title=Michigan State University fans wear teal in support of sexual abuse victims|access-date=2018-01-29|language=en}} The Spartans started well, leading by as many as 18 in the first half with a 37–21 half time lead.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/01/26/michigan-state-basketball-wisconsin-three-quick-takes/1071282001/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's win over Wisconsin and an odd night at Breslin|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-01-29|language=en}} Wisconsin brought the game to within six in the second half, but MSU was able to control the game.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2018/01/26/michigan-state-wisconsin-mens-basketball/1071500001/|title=Michigan State stays in control for much of 76-61 win over Wisconsin|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-01-29|language=en}} Miles Bridges led all scorers with 24 and Wisconsin's Ian Happ scored 22 of this 23 points in the second half to prevent the game from turning into a rout.{{Cite news|url=http://host.madison.com/wsj/sports/college/basketball/men/wisconsin-badgers-rally-falls-short-as-sixth-ranked-michigan-state/article_4ad88438-b271-5d9b-a3f0-60963c1638f7.html|title=Wisconsin Badgers' rally falls short as sixth-ranked Michigan State wins 76-61|last=Journal|first=Jim Polzin {{!}} Wisconsin State|work=madison.com|access-date=2018-01-29|language=en}} The Spartans cruised to a 76–61 win, moving to 19–3, 7–2 in Big Ten play on the season. After the game, Izzo did not comment much on the sexual assault allegations, but stated that he was not planning on retiring and that he wanted be part of the healing process.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/01/sexual_assault_overshadows_mic.html|title=Sexual assault overshadows Michigan State basketball win|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-01-29|language=en-US}}

Returning to the road less than 48 hours later, the Spartans traveled to face Maryland. MSU did not lead in the first half as Maryland was able to keep a lead throughout and pushed the lead to 13 at halftime.{{Cite news|url=http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/terps/tracking-the-terps/bs-sp-maryland-michigan-state-game-0129-story.html|title=Maryland squanders 13-point halftime lead, loses to No. 6 Michigan State, 74-68|last=Markus|first=Don|work=baltimoresun.com|access-date=2018-01-29|language=en-US|archive-date=2018-01-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180130013742/http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/terps/tracking-the-terps/bs-sp-maryland-michigan-state-game-0129-story.html|url-status=dead}} The Spartans answered to start the second half, taking the lead and leading by as many as eight. Josh Langford scored 19 for the Spartans as Nick Ward (seven points) and Miles Bridges (11 points) each struggled.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/01/28/michigan-state-basketball-maryland-terrapins/1073273001/|title=Michigan State basketball's blistering 2nd half tops Maryland, 74-68|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-01-29|language=en}} Cassius Winston overcame a rough start to score 13 as the Spartans cut down their turnovers, committing only 10. MSU held on for the 74–68 win, sweeping Maryland on the season to move to 20–3 and 8–2 on the season.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986534|title=Michigan State vs. Maryland - Game Recap - January 28, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-01-29}} Izzo was again questioned after the game regarding sexual assault reports, but again refused to say much.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/01/28/michigan-state-basketball-maryland-tom-izzo/1073510001/|title=Michigan State tops Maryland, but questions of Tom Izzo overshadow win|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-01-29|language=en}}

The Spartans returned home to face Penn State on January 31. MSU again struggled in the first half, scoring only 24 points for the second consecutive game and shooting only 37% from the field.{{Cite web|url=http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/stats/2017-2018/01312018.html|title=Michigan State Men's Basketball :: Official Athletic Site|website=www.msuspartans.com|access-date=2018-02-01}} As a result, they trailed by six at the half.{{Cite news|url=https://www.landof10.com/michigan-state/michigan-state-penn-state-basketball-recap-final-score-stats-jan-31-2018|title=Michigan State basketball rallies past Penn State for 76-68 home win|date=2018-01-31|work=Land of 10|access-date=2018-02-01|language=en-US}} The Nittany Lions pushed the lead to 12 early in the second half as it appeared the distractions surrounding the program were causing issues.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2018/01/31/michigan-state-penn-state-basketball/1085574001/|title=Michigan State uses emotional week as fuel in comeback win over Penn State|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-01|language=en}} However, MSU outscored Penn State 41–14 from there to win 76–68. Miles Bridges scored 23 while Cassius Winston scored 15 and had 10 assists.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/01/more_second-half_heroics_lead.html|title=More second-half heroics lead Michigan State to comeback win over Penn State|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-02-01|language=en-US}} The Spartans continued their nation-leading defensive play holding PSU to 37% from the field in the game while MSU finished at 50%. The Spartans did turn the ball over 16 times with most coming in the first half as they trailed throughout the half.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986541|title=Penn State vs. Michigan State - Game Recap - January 31, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-02-01}} The win moved MSU to 21–3, 9–2 on the season. The win also moved Tom Izzo into a second-place tie with Gene Keady for most Big Ten wins.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/02/04/michigan-state-basketball-indiana-hoosiers-tom-izzo/304644002/|title=Michigan State 'got beat up,' but beat Indiana, 'gotta become tougher'|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-02-07|language=en}}

MSU finished the season with five of their last seven games on the road, starting with a trip to Indiana on February 3. The Spartans avoided another slow start and took an early lead against the Hoosiers in Bloomington. MSU held Indiana to only 28% shooting from the field and led by as many as 11 in the first half and led by eight at halftime.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2018/02/04/matt-mcquaids-four-3-pointers-save-no-4-michigan-state-basketball-indiana/304420002/|title=Matt McQuaid's four 3-pointers save No. 4 Michigan State basketball at Indiana|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-06|language=en}} In the second half, the Spartans held their lead at about 10 for most of the game.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/03/michigan-state-indiana-basketball-couch-quick-takes-column/304360002/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 63-60 win at Indiana|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-06|language=en}} Matt McQuaid scored 12 to lead MSU on four of five shooting from behind the arc to help secure the 63–60 win.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986545|title=Michigan State vs. Indiana - Game Recap - February 3, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-02-06}} Tom Izzo was disappointed in the team's performance as the Spartans were outrebounded by 24 including a 25–3 deficit on the offensive boards.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2018/02/04/michigan-state-indiana-mens-basketball/304419002/|title=Izzo: Michigan State 'got beat up' while escaping Indiana|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-06|language=en}} MSU shot only 41% from the free throw line which allowed Indiana to pull the game within three and, after Cassius Winston missed two free throws with seconds remaining, allowed the Hoosiers to get a last-second heave to attempt to tie the game.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/04/michigan-state-basketball-indiana-miles-bridges-dan-dakich-couch-column/304383002/|title=Couch: Dan Dakich trolls Michigan State fans with Miles Bridges 'has no game' analysis|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-06|language=en}} The win moved the Spartans to 22–3, 10–2 on the season. The 22–3 start for the Spartans marked the best start for MSU since 2001. The win also marked Izzo's 266th Big Ten win, moving him in to sole possession of second place in Big Ten wins, trailing only Bob Knight.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/02/tom_izzo_moved_up_to_no_2_in_a.html|title=Tom Izzo moved up to No. 2 in all-time Big Ten wins but didn't like how he did it|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-02-07|language=en-US}}

MSU traveled to face Iowa on February 6, marking their fifth game in 12 days. MSU started well, taking an early lead, but foul trouble for Nick Ward and Jaren Jackson Jr. limited their effectiveness in the first half as they sat out for more than 10 minutes.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/06/couch-3-quick-takes-michigan-states-96-93-win-iowa/310911002/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 96-93 win at Iowa|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-07|language=en}} MSU, despite not playing great defense, took the halftime lead 48–42. Iowa closed the lead early in the second half and led by as many as eight before MSU narrowed the lead.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/02/michigan_state_erases_eight-po.html|title=Michigan State erases eight-point deficit as it tops Iowa on road|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-02-07|language=en-US}} Ward, who scored 17 points in only 12 minutes, missed much of the half with four fouls and Cassius Winston also sat for eight minutes due to poor play. Kenny Goins hit a three-pointer with just over two minutes remaining to give MSU a 90–89 lead.{{Cite news|url=https://www.theonlycolors.com/2018/2/6/16983880/roundball-recap-msu-basketball-sweats-out-win-vs-iowa|title=Roundball recap: MSU basketball sweats out win vs. Iowa|work=The Only Colors|access-date=2018-02-07}} However, Iowa retook the lead before Miles Bridges hit two free throws with over a minute remaining to give MSU the lead. Josh Langford made two free throws to extend the lead to 96–93 with six seconds remaining and Bridges stole the ensuing Iowa pass before being fouled.{{Cite news|url=http://www.thegazette.com/subject/sports/hawkeyes/iowa-mens-basketball/it-was-that-close-for-the-hawkeyes-20180206|title=It was that close for Iowa against Michigan State {{!}} The Gazette|last=Morehouse|first=Marc|work=The Gazette|access-date=2018-02-07}} Needing only one free throw to seal the game, Bridges missed both and Iowa's Nicholas Baer missed a half-court heave to tie it as the Spartans pulled out the 96–93 win.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/02/06/michigan-state-basketball-iowa-game/313627002/|title=Michigan State basketball escapes Iowa with late surge, 96-93|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-02-07|language=en}} Bridges led the Spartans with 25 points and Langford added 15 while Winston scored nine points and had eight assists.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986551|title=Michigan State vs. Iowa - Game Recap - February 6, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-02-07}} Tom Izzo was disappointed in his team's defense but happy with the win in the rough stretch of the schedule.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/07/michigan-state-basketball-iowa-purdue-ohio-state-couch-column/311207002/|title=Couch: If Michigan State doesn't get its mojo back against Purdue, it might never happen|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-07|language=en}} The win moved the Spartans to 23–3 and 11–2 in Big Ten play.

MSU welcomed Big Ten co-leader Purdue to the Breslin Center on February 10 for a Jud Heathcote tribute game.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/02/michigan_state_set_to_pay_trib.html|title=Michigan State set to pay tribute to Jud Heathcote during Purdue game|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en-US}} The Boilermakers, having lost to Ohio State earlier in the week and dropping into a tie with the Buckeyes in the Big Ten, started out well, leading by as many as 10 in the first half as big man Isaac Haas seemingly scored at will against the Spartans.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/10/michigan-state-purdue-basketball-quick-takes-couch-column/326291002/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 68-65 win over Purdue|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en}} MSU chose not to double Haas throughout the game, choosing to try to limit Purdue's three-point shooting.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/10/michigan-state-purdue-basketball-couch-column/326305002/|title=Couch: Miles Bridges, Michigan State give their season a chance with win over Purdue|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en}} At halftime, however, the Spartans trailed 36–31. In the second half, MSU settled on Gavin Schilling to guard Haas who still scored a game-high 25 points.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/02/11/michigan-state-basketball-purdue-bench-notebook/326845002/|title=Michigan State basketball gets key contributions from bench to rally|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en}} However, Purdue, who had shot 42% in the first half, shot only 37% in the second and made zero three-pointers.{{Cite web|url=http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/stats/2017-2018/021018.html|title=Michigan State Men's Basketball :: Official Athletic Site|website=www.msuspartans.com|access-date=2018-02-12}} MSU was able to tighten the score and take the lead, but still trailed by two when Kenny Goins hit a jumper to tie the game at 65 with 49 seconds remaining. Haas, with Schilling guarding him, missed a shot on the ensuing possession and MSU called timeout with 20 seconds remaining. Miles Bridges, who scored 20 in the game, took the ball and hit a three-pointer over Dakota Mathias to give MSU the 68–65 lead with seven seconds remaining.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986558|title=Purdue vs. Michigan State - Game Recap - February 10, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-02-12}} A foul on the in bounds play and a missed free throw by Vince Edwards sealed the win for the Spartans.{{Cite news|url=https://www.landof10.com/michigan-state/michigan-state-purdue-basketball-live-updates-score-feb-10-2018|title=Michigan State-Purdue men's basketball: Recap, score, analysis (February 10, 2018)|date=2018-02-10|work=Land of 10|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en-US}} The 68–65 win moved MSU to 24–3, 12–2 in Big Ten play and into a tie for second with Purdue, still one game behind conference-leading Ohio State.{{Cite news|url=https://www.theonlycolors.com/2018/2/10/17000144/roundball-recap-msu-basketball-wins-game-of-the-season-against-purdue|title=Roundball recap: MSU basketball wins game of the season against Purdue|work=The Only Colors|access-date=2018-02-12}} At halftime of the game, Steve Smith and other former MSU players paid tribute to former head coach Jud Heathcote and former Purdue coach Gene Keady paid his respects as well.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/02/michigan_state_honors_jud_heat.html|title=Michigan State honors Jud Heathcote, then wins 'his kind of game'|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en-US}}

On February 11, the Spartans, somewhat surprisingly, were give only a number three seed in an early NCAA Tournament preview of the top 16 seeds.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/2018/02/11/msu-seed-ncaa-tournament-committee-rankings/110319804/|title=MSU a No. 3 seed in NCAA Tournament committee rankings|work=Detroit News|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/02/michigan_state_a_no_3_seed_in.html|title=Michigan State a No. 3 seed in midseason NCAA Tournament bracket reveal|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en-US}} Purdue, having just lost two games, was still named a number one seed.{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/bracketology-michigan-state-is-a-no-3-and-other-surprises-by-the-selection-committee/|title=Bracketology: Michigan State is a No. 3 and other surprises by the selection committee|work=CBSSports.com|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en}}

On February 12, Michigan State was ranked number one in the Coaches Poll, receiving 17 of 32 first place votes.{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2018/02/12/michigan-state-takes-over-no-1-spot-usa-today-sports-mens-basketball-poll/329526002/|title=Michigan State takes over No. 1 spot in USA TODAY Sports men's basketball poll|work=USA TODAY|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en}} They were ranked number two in the AP poll, receiving 21 of 65 first place votes.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/02/12/michigan-state-basketball-rankings/329411002/|title=Michigan State No. 1 in USA Today poll, No. 2 in AP Top 25; U-M ranked|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-02-12|language=en}}

The Spartans traveled to Minneapolis to face Minnesota with four games remaining in the regular season looking to avoid a letdown after beating Purdue in the prior game.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/13/michigan-state-basketball-minnesota-couch-quick-takes-column/335724002/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 87-57 win at Minnesota|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-14|language=en}} The Spartans started the game off hot, shooting lights out from three as they made their first six three-pointers (three by Winston, two by Jackson Jr. and one by Bridges) to jump out to an 18–6 lead.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/02/13/michigan-state-basketball-minnesota-game/335920002/|title=Jaren Jackson Jr., Michigan State basketball dazzle Minnesota, 87-57|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-02-14|language=en}} MSU continued to shoot well from three, making 10 of 12 three-pointers in the first half to lead 43–25 in the first half. Jackson led the Spartans with a career-high 27 points while Ward, who struggled in the first half, scored 11 of his 13 points in the second half.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2018/02/14/michigan-state-basketball-notes-nick-ward-delivers-second-half-vs-minnesota/335840002/|title=Michigan State basketball notes: Nick Ward delivers in second half vs. Minnesota|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-14|language=en}} MSU dominated the glass against the overmatched Gophers, outrebounding them 49–22. Minnesota shot only 32% from the field as MSU shot over 53%, including 63%, from three in the 87–57 rout of the Gophers.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/02/michigan_state_blows_out_minne.html|title=Michigan State blows out Minnesota behind 27 points from Jaren Jackson Jr.|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-02-14|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/matchup?gameId=400986564|title=Michigan State vs. Minnesota - Team Statistics - February 13, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-02-14}} The win moved MSU to 25–3 overall, the school's best-ever start, as they moved to 13–2 in conference play.{{Cite news|url=http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/recaps/021318aab.html|title=Jackson's Career Night Leads No. 2/1 Michigan State Past Minnesota, 87-57|access-date=2018-02-14|archive-date=2018-02-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180215024215/http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/recaps/021318aab.html|url-status=dead}}

With three games remaining in the season, MSU traveled to play Northwestern at Allstate Arena on February 17. Following losses by Purdue and Ohio State earlier in the week, MSU entered the game with a chance to move into a first place tie with Ohio State with a win. However, the Spartans fell behind early as Northwestern shot 60% from the field in the first half and led by as many as 27 in the half.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2018/02/17/michigan-state-northwestern-mens-basketball/348366002/|title=No. 1 Michigan State completes incredible comeback, beats Northwestern, 65-60|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-19|language=en}} Michigan State trailed by 22 at the half as it looked like they would fail to take first place.{{Cite news|url=https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/2018/2/17/17023762/michigan-state-northwestern-comeback-final-score-football-2006|title=MSU's 27-point comeback on Northwestern isn't even the 2 schools' biggest|work=SBNation.com|access-date=2018-02-19}} However, MSU held Northwestern to 11 points in the second half as they surged back to tie the game behind Winston's 17 points, including five three-pointers.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/02/cassius_winston_made_some_magi.html|title=Cassius Winston 'made some magic' in Michigan State's comeback against Northwestern|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-02-19|language=en-US}} Jackson's three-point play with 5:36 remaining in the game gave the Spartans their first lead of the game at 56–53. Four made free throws by Miles Bridges with less than a minute remaining sealed the 65–60 win in front of a largely pro-Michigan State crowd.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/17/michigan-state-basketball-northwestern-couch-quick-takes-column/347941002/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 65-60 win at Northwestern|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-19|language=en}} Northwestern made only three of their 26 field goals in the second half, shooting less than 12% in the half.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986571|title=Michigan State vs. Northwestern - Game Recap - February 17, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-02-19}} The 27-point comeback win was the largest comeback win in Big Ten history and, at the time, the fifth largest all-time in Division I history.{{Cite news|url=http://collegebasketball.nbcsports.com/2018/02/17/no-2-michigan-state-overcomes-27-point-deficit-to-stun-northwestern/|title=No. 2 Michigan State matches largest comeback in a decade with 27-point rally over Northwestern|date=2018-02-17|work=CollegeBasketballTalk|access-date=2018-02-19|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/bigten/2018/02/17/no-1-michigan-state-storms-back-27-point-deficit-biggest-comeback-big-ten-history/348338002/|title=No. 1 Michigan State storms back from 27-point deficit for biggest comeback in Big Ten history|work=USA TODAY|access-date=2018-02-19|language=en}} The win moved MSU to 26–3 on the season and 14–2 in conference play.{{Cite news|url=https://www.landof10.com/michigan-state/michigan-state-basketball-survives-first-half-beats-northwestern|title=Michigan State holds Northwestern to 11 second-half points, wins 65-60|date=2018-02-17|work=Land of 10|access-date=2018-02-19|language=en-US}} The win and an Ohio State loss the following day put the Spartans in first place by themselves with only two games remaining in the regular season.{{Cite news|url=https://scout.com/college/ohio-state/Article/The-Ohio-State-Mens-Basketball-Team-Loses-At-No-22-Michigan-74-62-On-Sunday-Afternoon-115271988|title=The Ohio State Men's Basketball Team Loses At No. 22 Michigan 74-62 On Sunday Afternoon|access-date=2018-02-19}}

The Spartans returned home for Senior Night against Illinois on February 20 with a chance to clinch at least a share of the Big Ten title for the first time since 2012.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/02/20/michigan-state-spartans-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball/353502002/|title=Michigan State Spartans basketball vs. Illinois Fighting Illini: Time, TV, radio info|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-02-20|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/19/michigan-state-basketball-couch-column-tum-tum-nairn-tom-izzo/350799002/|title=Couch: Tum Tum Nairn leads a senior class that Tom Izzo didn't want, but is grateful for|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-20|language=en}} Because it was senior night, seniors Ben Carter, Lourawls "Tum Tum" Nairn Jr., and Gavin Schilling started the game for the Spartans, only the third different starting lineup on the season.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/02/michigan_state_clinches_big_te.html|title=Michigan State clinches Big Ten title share with senior day win over Illinois|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-02-21|language=en-US}} MSU started slow, but took a three-point lead at the half against the Illini who made six three-pointers in the first half. However, in the second half, the Spartans took control, pushing the lead to more than 20 in the easy win.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/02/20/michigan-state-spartans-illinois-senior-night/357440002/|title=Michigan State basketball clinches share of Big Ten with 81-61 win over Illinois on senior night|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-02-21|language=en}} Bridges led the Spartans with 19 points on what was his last game at the Breslin Center.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986579|title=Illinois vs. Michigan State - Game Recap - February 20, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-02-21}} Jackson, also in his last game in East Lansing, scored eight and had five blocks in only 18 minutes.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/20/michigan-state-basketball-illinois-couch-quick-takes-column/357113002/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 81-61 Big Ten title-clinching win over Illinois|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-21|language=en}} Langford added 16 points while Winston added 12 in the 81–61 win. The win moved the Spartans to 27–3, 15–2 on the season and gave them at least a share of the Big Ten title with one game remaining against Wisconsin. After the game, the Spartans were happy with the title as they raised a championship banner, but stated they wanted to do more on the season.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/02/21/michigan-state-basketball-illinois/357761002/|title=Michigan State has share of Big Ten title after blowing out Illinois, but wants more|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-02-21|language=en}}

Looking to win the Big Ten title outright, the Spartans traveled to Wisconsin on February 25 for the final regular season game. Prior to the game, reports surfaced that Miles Bridges had been paid to attend Michigan State, among other allegations.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/23/miles-bridges-mother-michigan-state-tom-izzo-federal-investigation-couch-column/366350002/|title=Couch: Alleged payment to Miles Bridges' mom another ding to Michigan State's reputation|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-26|language=en}} MSU conducted an investigation and presented their findings to the NCAA, who cleared Bridges, ruling him eligible to play against the Badgers.{{Cite news|url=https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/michigan-states-miles-bridges-has-been-cleared-and-will-play-sunday-at-wisconsin/|title=Michigan State's Miles Bridges has been cleared and will play Sunday at Wisconsin|work=CBSSports.com|access-date=2018-02-26|language=en}} The Spartans started off well, taking an early lead, but Wisconsin shot the ball well in the first half. Despite this, the Spartans did not trail until midway through the second half.{{Cite news|url=https://247sports.com/college/michigan-state/Article/Michigan-State-Spartans-basketball-MSU-beats-Wisconsin-68-63-wins-Big-Ten-champiopnship-outright-115549655|title=Michigan State Spartans basketball: MSU beats Wisconsin 68-63, wins Big Ten champiopnship outright|access-date=2018-02-26}} Cassius Winston went six for six from three, scoring 20 points to lead the Spartans to the 68–63 win.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=400986589|title=Michigan State vs. Wisconsin - Game Recap - February 25, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-02-26}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/02/25/michigan-state-basketball-wisconsin-three-quick-takes-couch-column/371317002/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 68-63 win at Wisconsin and outright Big Ten title|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-02-26|language=en}} Nick Ward added 14 points while Bridges added 10 as MSU held Wisconsin to 37% shooting. The win moved the Spartans to 16–2 in the Big Ten, marking the most conference wins in school history as the Spartans clinched the Big Ten title outright for the first time since 2009.{{Cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/2018/02/25/alone-top-msu-wins-big-ten-title-outright/110836358/|title=Sole owners! Spartans win Big Ten title outright|work=Detroit News|access-date=2018-02-26|language=en}} The Spartans also moved to 28–3 on the season, the most regular season wins in school history.

As the No. 1 seed in the Big Ten tournament held at Madison Square Garden, MSU faced Wisconsin in the quarterfinals on March 2 following the Badgers' win over Maryland the day before. In the second meeting between the two teams in five days, the Spartans took the early lead and led the majority of the first half, but, as in their last meeting, the Badgers kept the game close.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/03/02/michigan-state-basketball-big-ten-tournament-wisconsin/389085002/|title=Michigan State survives, beats Wisconsin in Big Ten tournament|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-03-05|language=en}} A 32–28 halftime lead for the Spartans preceded a second half where the lead shifted back and forth. Miles Bridges scored 20 for the Spartans while Cassius Winston added 17. With 20 seconds remaining in the game and the Spartans leading by three, the Badgers could not get off a good shot as the Spartan defense limited them to a long three-point attempt which fell short.{{Cite news|url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state-university/2018/03/02/michigan-state-sweats-but-survives-vs-wisconsin-big-ten-tournament/111016998/|title='It's big': Michigan State sweats but survives vs. Wisconsin|work=Detroit News|access-date=2018-03-05|language=en}} The 63–60 win, the Spartans eighth straight year with at least a win in the Big Ten tournament, moved the Spartans to the semifinals to face Michigan.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=401020036|title=Wisconsin vs. Michigan State - Game Recap - March 2, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-03-05}}

On March 3, the Spartans faced their rivals, Michigan, looking to avenge an early season loss at the Breslin Center. The Wolverines started well, taking an early eight point lead in the first half. However, MSU fought back and took a three-point lead at the half.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/university-michigan/2018/03/03/michigan-state-michigan-basketball/392138002/|title=Michigan State basketball has better record; Michigan has better team|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-03-05|language=en}} Miles Bridges scored 17 for the Spartans, including showing a strong post presence, but it was not enough as MSU could not overcome Michigan's defense. Michigan limited MSU to 38% shooting including only 28% from three. The Wolverines beat the Spartans for the second time on the season and ended any real chance for the Spartans to receive a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/03/03/michigan-state-michigan-wolverines-big-ten-tournament-couch-three-quick-takes/388680002/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 75-64 Big Ten tournament loss to Michigan|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-03-05|language=en}} The loss ended MSU's 13-game winning streak.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=401020040|title=Michigan vs. Michigan State - Game Recap - March 3, 2018 - ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-03-05}}

Due to the Big Ten tournament being held a week early, the Spartans had to wait for more than a week before NCAA Tournament pairings were announced and at least 13 days before their next game.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/03/03/michigan-state-basketball-big-ten-tournament-ncaa/392636002/|title=Michigan State basketball has a long wait for its NCAA fate after loss|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-03-05|language=en}} For the 21st consecutive year, Michigan State received an invitation to the NCAA Tournament.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/03/michigan_state_ncaa_tournament_4.html|title=Michigan State No. 3 seed in NCAA Tournament, plays Bucknell in first round in Detroit|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-03-12|language=en-US}} As the No. 3 seed in the Midwest region, the Spartans learned they would face Bucknell at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit on March 16.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/03/11/michigan-state-basketball-ncaa-tournament/415064002/|title=Michigan State basketball to face Bucknell to open NCAA tournament|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-03-12|language=en}} The Spartans previously played at Little Caesars Arena in December when they defeated Oakland.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/mens-basketball/2018/03/11/michigan-state-bucknell-mens-basketball-ncaa-tournament/415093002/|title=Michigan State receives No. 3 seed, to play Bucknell in Detroit in NCAA tournament opener|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-03-12|language=en}}

On March 16, the Spartans took on Bucknell in Detroit. MSU took an early lead in the first half, but were unable to put Bucknell away. MSU did lead 44–40 at the half and extended the lead in the second half, leading by as many as 16 as Miles Bridges took control of the game.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/03/16/michigan-state-basketball-ncaa-tournament-bucknell-couch-quick-takes-column/432267002/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's NCAA tournament win over Bucknell|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-03-19|language=en}} Bridges scored 29 to lead all scorers while Josh Langford added 22.{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/2018/03/16/ncaa-tournament-michigan-state-basketball-bucknell-score/434214002/|title=Michigan State's Miles Bridges a megastar in NCAA tournament win|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-03-19|language=en}} Bucknell scored 15 points on five three-pointers with less than 90 seconds remaining, including one at the buzzer, to narrow the margin to a four-point victory at 82–78.{{Cite news|url=https://www.landof10.com/michigan-state/michigan-state-basketball-defense-zach-thomas-ncaa-tournament|title=NCAA Tournament 2018: Michigan State gets physical, turns tables on Bucknell star Zach Thomas|date=2018-03-17|work=Land of 10|access-date=2018-03-19|language=en-US}} Xavier Tillman was the only non-starter to score for MSU.

In the second round, MSU took on No. 11-seeded Syracuse and their zone two days later. After scoring 44 points in the first half of the previous game, the Spartans managed only 25 points in the first half as they struggled to deal with the Syracuse zone. Despite their struggles, the Orange were unable to take the lead until just over four minutes remained in the game.{{Cite news|url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/bob-wojnowski/2018/03/18/wojo-michigan-state-exits-dazed-defiant/33072811/|title=Wojo: Michigan State exits dazed, defiant|work=Detroit News|access-date=2018-03-19|language=en}} MSU attempted a season-high 37 three-pointers, making only eight of them as they struggled to find shots.{{Cite news|url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/columnists/graham-couch/2018/03/18/michigan-state-basketball-ncaa-tournament-syracuse-duke-quick-takes-couch-column/436261002/|title=Couch: 3 quick takes on Michigan State's 55-53 NCAA tournament loss to Syracuse|work=Lansing State Journal|access-date=2018-03-19|language=en}} Bridges went 4–18 from the field, while Cassius Winston went 4–12 and Langford went 1–12. As a result, MSU fell to the Orange to end their season 55–53. Following the game, Bridges, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Nick Ward declined to address the possibility of them going to the NBA.

{{CBB roster/Header|year=2017|team=Michigan State Spartans|teamcolors=y|high_school=yes}}

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{{Basketball depth chart

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The 2018 Big Ten tournament was held at Madison Square Garden in New York City.{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2014/12/09/big-ten-tournament-at-msg-in-2018/20156595/|title=Big Ten tournament at MSG in 2018|work=USA TODAY|access-date=2017-04-14|language=en}} Due to the Big East's use of that venue for their conference tournament, the Big Ten tournament took place one week earlier than usual, ending the week before Selection Sunday.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2014/12/09/big-ten-tournament-new-york/20122853/|title=Izzo concerned about '18 Big Ten tournament in New York|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-08-16|language=en}} This resulted in teams having nearly two weeks off before the NCAA tournament.{{Cite news|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2014/12/09/big-ten-tournament-new-york/20122853/|title=Izzo concerned about '18 Big Ten tournament in New York|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2017-08-11|language=en}} As a result, it the Big Ten regular season will begin in early Dec. A previously scheduled road game against Florida was moved to the 2018–19 season due to scheduling conflicts.{{cite web |url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/05/michigan_states_originally_sch.html |title=Michigan State's originally scheduled game at Florida for this season is pushed to 2018–19 |first=Brendan F. |last=Quinn |website=mlive.com |date=May 15, 2017 |access-date=May 15, 2017}}

{{CBB schedule start|gamehighs=yes|attend=yes}}

|-

!colspan=9 style={{NCAA color cell|Michigan State Spartans}}|Exhibition

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Oct 26, 2017

| time = 7:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| rank =

| opponent = {{cbb link|year=2017–18|sex=men|team=Ferris State Bulldogs|school=Ferris State University|title=Ferris State}}

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = BTN Plus

| score = 80–72

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Winston

| points = 26

| highrebounder = Jackson Jr.

| rebounds = 8

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 5

| record =

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Oct 29, 2017

| time = 2:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| neutral = yes

| rank =

| opponent = Georgia

| site_stadium = Van Andel Arena

| site_cityst = Grand Rapids, MI

| gamename = Hurricane charity relief

| tv =

| score = 80–68

| attend = 10,699

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 21

| highrebounder = Bridges

| rebounds = 10

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 10

| record =

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Nov 3, 2017

| time = 7:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Hillsdale

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = BTN Plus

| score = 75–44

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Ward

| points = 14

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 13

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 6

| record =

}}

|-

!colspan=9 style={{NCAA color cell|Michigan State Spartans}}| Regular season

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Nov 10, 2017

| time = 8:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = North Florida

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = BTN

| score = 98–66

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 20

| highrebounder = Jackson Jr.

| rebounds = 13

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 8

| record = 1–0

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Nov 14, 2017

| time = 7:00{{nbsp}}pm

| neutral = yes

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Duke

| opprank = 1

| site_stadium = United Center

| site_cityst = Chicago, IL

| gamename = Champions Classic

| tv = ESPN

| score = 81–88

| attend = 21,684

| highscorer = Bridges/Jackson Jr./Ward

| points = 19

| highrebounder = Jackson Jr.

| rebounds = 7

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 11

| record = 1–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Nov 19, 2017

| time = 4:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Stony Brook

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| gamename = Phil Knight Invitational campus game

| tv = BTN

| score = 93–71

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Ward

| points = 22

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 11

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 6

| record = 2–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Nov 23, 2017

| time = 11:30{{nbsp}}pm

| neutral = yes

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 4

| opponent = DePaul

| site_stadium = Moda Center

| site_cityst = Portland, OR

| gamename = Phil Knight Invitational Victory Bracket quarterfinals

| tv = ESPN

| score = 73–51

| attend = 13,439

| highscorer = McQuaid

| points = 20

| highrebounder = Jackson Jr.

| rebounds = 10

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 8

| record = 3–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Nov 24, 2017

| time = 11:59{{nbsp}}pm

| neutral = yes

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 4

| opponent = UConn

| site_stadium = Veterans Memorial Coliseum

| site_cityst = Portland, OR

| gamename = Phil Knight Invitational Victory Bracket semifinals

| tv = ESPN

| score = 77–57

| attend = 8,853

| highscorer = Winston

| points = 28

| highrebounder = Jackson Jr.

| rebounds = 10

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 5

| record = 4–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Nov 26, 2017

| time = 8:30{{nbsp}}pm

| neutral = yes

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 4

| opponent = North Carolina

| opprank = 9

| site_stadium = Moda Center

| site_cityst = Portland, OR

| gamename = Phil Knight Invitational Victory Bracket championship game

| tv = ESPN

| score = 63–45

| attend = 19,413

| highscorer = Langford

| points = 23

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 8

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 7

| record = 5–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Nov 30, 2017

| time = 7:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 3

| opponent = Notre Dame

| opprank = 5

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| gamename = ACC–Big Ten Challenge

| tv = ESPN

| score = 81–63

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Langford/Winston

| points = 17

| highrebounder = Bridges

| rebounds = 6

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 6

| record = 6–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Dec 3, 2017

| time = 4:30{{nbsp}}pm

| rank = 3

| opponent = Nebraska

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = FS1

| score = 86–57

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Ward

| points = 22

| highrebounder = Jackson Jr.

| rebounds = 10

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 7

| record = 7–1

| conference = 1–0

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Dec 5, 2017

| time = 7:00{{nbsp}}pm

| away = yes

| rank = 3

| opponent = Rutgers

| site_stadium = Louis Brown Athletic Center

| site_cityst = Piscataway, NJ

| tv = BTN

| score = 62–52

| attend = 6,020

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 21

| highrebounder = Schilling

| rebounds = 8

| highassister = Nairn Jr.

| assists = 6

| record = 8–1

| conference = 2–0

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Dec 9, 2017

| time = 6:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 3

| opponent = Southern Utah

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = BTN

| score = 88–63

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Bridges/Jackson Jr./Ward

| points = 17

| highrebounder = Jackson Jr.

| rebounds = 13

| highassister = Bridges

| assists = 6

| record = 9–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Dec 16, 2017

| time = 2:30{{nbsp}}pm

| neutral = yes

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Oakland

| site_stadium = Little Caesars Arena

| site_cityst = Detroit, MI

| gamename = Hitachi College Basketball Showcase

| tv = ESPNU

| score = 86–73

| attend = 20,695

| highscorer = Winston

| points = 19

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 15

| highassister = Goins

| assists = 7

| record = 10–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Dec 18, 2017

| time = 6:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Houston Baptist

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = BTN

| score = 107–62

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 33

| highrebounder = Jackson Jr.

| rebounds = 8

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 12

| record = 11–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Dec 21, 2017

| time = 7:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Long Beach State

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = BTN Plus

| score = 102–60

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Bridges/Langford

| points = 17

| highrebounder = Bridges

| rebounds = 9

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 8

| record = 12–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Dec 29, 2017

| time = 6:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Cleveland State

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = BTN

| score = 111–61

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Langford

| points = 23

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 14

| highassister = Bridges

| assists = 7

| record = 13–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Dec 31, 2017

| time = 12:00{{nbsp}}pm

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Savannah State

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = BTN

| score = 108–52

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Ward

| points = 21

| highrebounder = Bridges

| rebounds = 21

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 13

| record = 14–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Jan 4, 2018

| time = 8:00{{nbsp}}pm

| rank = 1

| opponent = Maryland

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = FS1

| score = 91–61

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Ward

| points = 16

| highrebounder = McQuaid

| rebounds = 7

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 8

| record = 15–1

| conference = 3–0

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Jan 7, 2018

| time = 4:30 pm

| away = yes

| rank = 1

| opponent = Ohio State

| site_stadium = Value City Arena

| site_cityst = Columbus, OH

| tv = CBS

| score = 64–80

| attend = 17,599

| highscorer = Bridges/Langford

| points = 17

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 10

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 6

| record = 15–2

| conference = 3–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Jan 10, 2018

| time = 7:00{{nbsp}}pm

| rank = 4

| opponent = Rutgers

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = BTN

| score = 76–72

| overtime = OT

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Ward

| points = 17

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 10

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 7

| record = 16–2

| conference = 4–1

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Jan 13, 2018

| time = 12:00{{nbsp}}pm

| rank = 4

| opponent = Michigan

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| gamename = Rivalry

| tv = FOX

| score = 72–82

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Bridges/Jackson Jr.

| points = 19

| highrebounder = Bridges/Schilling

| rebounds = 6

| highassister = Bridges

| assists = 5

| record = 16–3

| conference = 4–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Jan 19, 2018

| time = 7:00{{nbsp}}pm

| rank = 9

| opponent = Indiana

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = FS1

| score = 85–57

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 22

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 13

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 8

| record = 17–3

| conference = 5–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Jan 22, 2018

| time = 9:00{{nbsp}}pm

| away = yes

| rank = 6

| opponent = Illinois

| site_stadium = State Farm Center

| site_cityst = Champaign, IL

| tv = FS1

| score = 87–74

| attend = 13,552

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 31

| highrebounder = Jackson Jr.

| rebounds = 11

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 8

| record = 18–3

| conference = 6–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Jan 26, 2018

| time = 8:00{{nbsp}}pm

| rank = 6

| opponent = Wisconsin

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = FS1

| score = 76–61

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 24

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 11

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 6

| record = 19–3

| conference = 7–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Jan 28, 2018

| time = 1:00{{nbsp}}pm

| away = yes

| rank = 6

| opponent = Maryland

| site_stadium = Xfinity Center

| site_cityst = College Park, MD

| tv = CBS

| score = 74–68

| attend = 17,950

| highscorer = Langford

| points = 19

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 12

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 5

| record = 20–3

| conference = 8–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Jan 31, 2018

| time = 6:30{{nbsp}}pm

| rank = 5

| opponent = Penn State

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = BTN

| score = 76–68

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 23

| highrebounder = Bridges/Ward

| rebounds = 9

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 10

| record = 21–3

| conference = 9–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Feb 3, 2018

| time = 7:15 pm

| away = yes

| rank = 5

| opponent = Indiana

| site_stadium = Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall

| site_cityst = Bloomington, IN

| tv = ESPN

| score = 63–60

| attend = 17,222

| highscorer = McQuaid

| points = 12

| highrebounder = Bridges

| rebounds = 8

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 7

| record = 22–3

| conference = 10–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Feb 6, 2018

| time = 9:00{{nbsp}}pm

| away = yes

| rank = 4

| opponent = Iowa

| site_stadium = Carver–Hawkeye Arena

| site_cityst = Iowa City, IA

| tv = ESPN

| score = 96–93

| attend = 11,350

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 25

| highrebounder = Goins

| rebounds = 9

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 8

| record = 23–3

| conference = 11–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Feb 10, 2018

| time = 4:00 pm

| rank = 4

| opprank = 3

| opponent = Purdue

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| gamename = Jud Heathcote Tribute Game

| tv = ESPN

| score = 68–65

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 20

| highrebounder = Winston/Schilling

| rebounds = 7

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 10

| record = 24–3

| conference = 12–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Feb 13, 2018

| time = 9:00{{nbsp}}pm

| away = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Minnesota

| site_stadium = Williams Arena

| site_cityst = Minneapolis, MN

| tv = ESPN2

| score = 87–57

| attend = 12,218

| highscorer = Jackson Jr.

| points = 27

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 9

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 5

| record = 25–3

| conference = 13–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Feb 17, 2018

| time = 2:00{{nbsp}}pm

| away = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Northwestern

| site_stadium = Allstate Arena

| site_cityst = Rosemont, IL

| tv = FOX

| score = 65–60

| attend = 12,114

| highscorer = Winston

| points = 17

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 10

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 7

| record = 26–3

| conference = 14–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Feb 20, 2018

| time = 7:00{{nbsp}}pm

| rank = 2

| opponent = Illinois

| site_stadium = Breslin Center

| site_cityst = East Lansing, MI

| tv = ESPN

| score = 81–61

| attend = 14,797

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 19

| highrebounder = Ward

| rebounds = 7

| highassister = Winston/Langford

| assists = 5

| record = 27–3

| conference = 15–2

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Feb 25, 2018

| time = 1:00{{nbsp}}pm

| away = yes

| rank = 2

| opponent = Wisconsin

| site_stadium = Kohl Center

| site_cityst = Madison, WI

| tv = CBS

| score = 68–63

| attend = 17,287

| highscorer = Winston

| points = 20

| highrebounder = Bridges

| rebounds = 8

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 5

| record = 28–3

| conference = 16–2

}}

|-

!colspan=9 style={{NCAA color cell|Michigan State Spartans}}|2018 Big Ten Conference men's basketball tournament

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Mar 2, 2018

| time = 12:00 pm

| neutral = yes

| rank = 2

| seed = 1

| opponent = Wisconsin

| oppseed = 9

| site_stadium = Madison Square Garden

| site_cityst = New York, NY

| gamename = Quarterfinals

| tv = BTN

| score = 63–60

| attend = 14,260

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 20

| highrebounder = Bridges

| rebounds = 9

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 5

| record = 29–3

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Mar 3, 2018

| time = 2:00 pm

| neutral = yes

| rank = 2

| seed = 1

| opponent = Michigan

| oppseed = 5

| opprank = 15

| site_stadium = Madison Square Garden

| site_cityst = New York, NY

| gamename = Semifinals

| tv = CBS

| score = 64–75

| attend = 19,812

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 17

| highrebounder = Bridges/Jackson Jr./Langford

| rebounds = 7

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 5

| record = 29–4

}}

|-

!colspan=12 style={{NCAA color cell|Michigan State Spartans}}| 2018 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Mar 16, 2018

| time = 7:10 pm

| neutral = yes

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 5

| seed = 3 MW

| opponent = Bucknell

| oppseed = 14 MW

| site_stadium = Little Caesars Arena

| site_cityst = Detroit, MI

| tv = CBS

| gamename = First Round

| score = 82–78

| highscorer = Bridges

| points = 29

| highrebounder= Bridges

| rebounds = 9

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 10

| attend = 20,314

| record = 30–4

}}

{{CBB schedule entry

| date = Mar 18, 2018

| time = 2:40 pm

| neutral = yes

| nonconf = yes

| rank = 5

| seed = 3 MW

| opponent = Syracuse

| oppseed = 11 MW

| site_stadium = Little Caesars Arena

| site_cityst = Detroit, MI

| tv = CBS

| gamename = Second Round

| score = 53–55

| highscorer = Winston

| points = 15

| highrebounder= Tillman

| rebounds = 12

| highassister = Winston

| assists = 6

| attend = 20,360

| record = 30–5

}}

{{CBB schedule end

| rank =

| poll = AP Poll

| timezone = Eastern Time

| region = MW

| regionname = Midwest

}}

Source{{Cite web|url=http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/msu/sports/m-baskbl/auto_pdf/2017-18/misc_non_event/201718MBBSchedule.pdf|title=2017–18 MEN'S BASKETBALL SCHEDULE|access-date=2017-08-16|archive-date=2017-08-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170817040232/http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/msu/sports/m-baskbl/auto_pdf/2017-18/misc_non_event/201718MBBSchedule.pdf|url-status=dead}}{{Cite news|url=https://247sports.com/college/michigan-state/article/michigan-state-basketball-schedules-more-non-conference-games-adding-one-more-106216829/|title=Michigan State basketball schedules more non-conference games, adding one more|work=SpartanTailgate|access-date=2017-08-16}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2017/08/michigan_state_opens_big_ten_p.html|title=Michigan State opens Big Ten play with Nebraska, will host Michigan Jan. 13|work=MLive.com|access-date=2017-08-16|language=en-US}}

Source{{Cite web|url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/schools/michigan-state/2018.html|title=2017–18 Michigan State Spartans Roster and Stats {{!}} College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com|website=College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com|language=en|access-date=2017-11-13}}

{{Main|2017–18 NCAA Division I men's basketball rankings}}

{{Ranking movements

| poll1title = AP

| poll1firstweek = 0

| poll1lastweek =18

| poll1_0=2 (13)

| poll1_1= 2 (13)

| poll1_2= 4

| poll1_3= 3

| poll1_4= 3

| poll1_5= 2 (19)

| poll1_6= 2 (15)

| poll1_7= 2 (16)

| poll1_8= 1 (43)

| poll1_9= 4

| poll1_10= 9

| poll1_11= 6

| poll1_12= 5

| poll1_13= 4

| poll1_14= 2 (20)

| poll1_15= 2 (19)

| poll1_16= 2 (17)

| poll1_17= 4

| poll1_18= 5

| poll1_19=

| poll2title = Coaches

| poll2firstweek = 0

| poll2lastweek =19

| poll2_0=2 (9)

| poll2_1=2 (9)^

| poll2_2=5

| poll2_3= 3

| poll2_4= 3 (1)

| poll2_5= 2 (10)

| poll2_6= 2 (6)

| poll2_7= 2 (5)

| poll2_8= 1 (25)

| poll2_9= 4

| poll2_10= 9

| poll2_11= 6

| poll2_12= 4

| poll2_13= 4

| poll2_14= 1 (17)

| poll2_15= 1 (20)

| poll2_16= 2 (15)

| poll2_17= 5

| poll2_18= 5

| poll2_19= 11

| poll2_20=

}}

^Coaches Poll did not release a Week 2 poll at the same time AP did.

*AP does not release post-NCAA tournament rankings.

• All-Big Ten First Team (unanimous media and coaches){{Cite news|url=http://www.bigten.org/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/022618aad.html|title=Big Ten Unveils Men's Basketball Postseason Honors on BTN|access-date=2018-02-27|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180227094314/http://www.bigten.org/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/022618aad.html|archive-date=2018-02-27|url-status=dead}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/02/26/michigan-state-basketball-big-ten-awards/375071002/|title=Michigan State's Jaren Jackson Jr. top Big Ten freshman, defensive POY|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-02-27|language=en}}
• Sporting News Second Team All-American{{Cite news|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/list/sporting-news-college-basketball-2018-all-america-team-jalen-brunson-deandre-ayton/1397niatcbes1qoace9liey4r/slide/7|title=Sporting News' 2017-18 college basketball All-Americans|work=Sporting News|access-date=2018-03-05|archive-date=2018-03-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306083603/http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/list/sporting-news-college-basketball-2018-all-america-team-jalen-brunson-deandre-ayton/1397niatcbes1qoace9liey4r/slide/7|url-status=dead}}
• USBWA Second Team All-American{{Cite news|url=http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/031218aab.html|title=Miles Bridges U.S. Basketball Writers Second Team All-American|access-date=2018-03-12|archive-date=2018-03-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313031525/http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/031218aab.html|url-status=dead}}
• USBWA All-District V Team{{Cite web|url=http://www.sportswriters.net/usbwa/news/2018/alldistrict180306.html|title=USBWA > News > 2017-18 Men's All-District Teams|website=www.sportswriters.net|access-date=2018-03-12}}
• AP Second Team All-American{{Cite news|url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/spartans/2018/03/27/michigan-state-basketball-miles-bridges-all-american/463232002/|title=Michigan State basketball's Miles Bridges named 2nd-team AP All-American|work=Detroit Free Press|access-date=2018-03-27|language=en}}

• Big Ten Freshman of the Year{{Cite news|url=http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2018/02/jaren_jackson_jr_named_top_big.html|title=Jaren Jackson Jr. named top Big Ten freshman and defensive player, Miles Bridges named All-Big Ten|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-02-27|language=en-US}}
• Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year
• All-Big Ten Third Team (media and coaches)
• All-Big Ten Freshmen Team
• All-Big Ten Defensive Team

• All-Big Ten Third Team (media)
• All-Big Ten Honorable Mention (coaches)

• All-Big Ten Third Team (media and coaches)
• USBWA All-District V Team

{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

{{Michigan State Spartans men's basketball navbox}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:2017-18 Michigan State Spartans Men's Basketball Team}}

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